FAA Requires Embraer Airplane Stabilizer Checks and Fixes
Published Date: 11/18/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA wants Embraer EMB-505 airplane owners to check and fix parts of the horizontal stabilizer because some tests might have been done wrong. This means inspecting and possibly replacing certain hinge points and pitch trim parts to keep flights safe. Comments on this plan are open until January 2, 2026, so owners should get ready to act soon, though no big costs are expected right away.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory HS backlash inspection
If you operate an Embraer Model EMB-505 airplane identified in ANAC AD 2025-04-01, you must inspect the left- and right-hand horizontal stabilizer (HS) backlash and replace hinge point and pitch trim attachment parts or the pitch trim actuator if required. The action implements ANAC AD 2025-04-01 (effective April 15, 2025) by reference to address invalid HS backlash test results that could cause unacceptable vibration levels and reduced controllability.
Inspection cost: $1,360 per airplane
The FAA estimates the required HS backlash inspection takes 16 work-hours at $85 per hour for a labor cost of $1,360 per airplane. The FAA estimates this AD would affect 50 U.S.-registered EMB-505 airplanes for a total estimated inspection cost to U.S. operators of $68,000.
On-condition replacement costs listed
If replacements are needed after inspection, estimated on-condition costs per airplane include: LH hinge point attachment parts $1,745 (17 work-hours + $300 parts); RH hinge point attachment parts $1,795 (17 hours + $350 parts); RH or LH pitch trim actuator rod-end attachment parts $1,760 each (16 hours + $400 parts); and pitch trim actuator replacement $6,530 (18 hours + $5,000 parts).
Manufacturer warranty may cover costs
The FAA notes that, according to the manufacturer, all of the costs of this proposed AD may be covered under warranty, which could reduce the cost impact on affected operators.
Stricter approval for alternative parts
While ANAC AD 2025-04-01 allowed use of approved alternative or similar parts approved by Embraer, this FAA proposed AD requires approval from either the Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA; ANAC; or ANAC's authorized Designee (the ANAC Designee's approval must include an authorized signature) before using alternative parts.
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