Stuck Inside? FAA Warns Pilatus Planes' Exits Might Jam in Emergencies
Published Date: 1/21/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
Pilatus PC-12 airplane owners need to check their emergency exit doors because some might not open from inside—yikes! The FAA wants pilots to inspect and fix the passenger service unit trim panel if it’s missing special fastener tapes, and stop using parts that cause this problem. Comments on this safety fix are open until March 9, 2026, so act fast to keep flying safe without breaking the bank.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
PC-12 Emergency Exit Inspection Required
If you own or operate a Pilatus PC-12 with manufacturer serial numbers 2001 through 2999, you must visually inspect the passenger service unit (PSU) trim panel to see if dual lock fastener tapes are installed and modify the panel if those tapes are missing. The rule also prohibits installing affected parts and requires compliance with European Union Aviation Safety Agency AD 2025-0182 (dated August 25, 2025) to prevent the PSU trim panel from blocking the emergency exit door.
Estimated Inspection and Repair Costs
The FAA estimates the proposed AD would affect 250 U.S.-registered PC-12 airplanes. The inspection is estimated at 1 work-hour × $85/hour = $85 per airplane (a total of $21,250 for 250 airplanes). If modification is required, the AD lists on-condition work of 2 work-hours at $85/hour and parts costing $270.
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