FAA Proposes Stricter Checks for Pilatus PC-6 Airplane Models
Published Date: 4/6/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
Pilatus airplane owners and operators, listen up! The FAA wants to update safety rules for several PC-6 models by adding stricter maintenance checks and inspections to keep flights safe. Comments are open until May 21, 2026, so get ready to review and possibly spend a bit on extra inspections to keep your aircraft flying strong.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 4 costs, 0 mixed.
Must Revise Maintenance Limits Now
If you own or operate a Pilatus PC-6 series airplane, the FAA proposes you must revise the airworthiness limitation section (ALS) of your aircraft maintenance manual or instructions for continued airworthiness to incorporate new or more restrictive tasks, thresholds, and intervals. The revision must include life limits and maintenance tasks specified in EASA AD 2025-0281, dated December 11, 2025.
Short 30‑Day Deadline To Comply
The FAA would require revising the ALS and the approved maintenance or inspection program within 30 days after the effective date of this AD. This 30‑day deadline replaces EASA's 12‑month compliance window.
Adds Life Limits for Pitch Trim Relay
The proposed AD adds life limits for the control column pitch trim relay and requires incorporating those life limits into the ALS. The AD states failure to incorporate these limits could result in part failure and loss of airplane control.
Owners with Private Pilot Certificate Can Do Work
The AD allows the owner/operator (pilot) holding at least a private pilot certificate to perform the required ALS revision and requires that the action be entered into the aircraft records under 14 CFR 43.9(a) and 91.417(a)(2)(v). You must keep the record as required by 14 CFR 91.417, 121.380, or 135.439.
Estimated Cost and Number Affected
The FAA estimates this AD would affect 30 U.S.-registered Pilatus PC-6 series airplanes. The FAA estimates the required ALS revision is 1 work-hour at $85 per airplane ($85 per product) for a total U.S. operator cost of $2,550.
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