Viking Airplanes Need Stabilizer Checkups: FAA's Safety Mandate Rolls Out
Published Date: 6/20/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
If you own a Viking DHC-3 airplane, the FAA wants you to keep checking a part called the stabilizer actuator to make sure it’s safe. They’re adding a new step to install a backup safety feature that stops the need for constant checks. You’ll also have to make sure any new parts are good to go, helping keep flights safe without breaking the bank.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 1 mixed.
Repeat stabilizer inspections required
If you own or operate a Viking Model DHC-3 airplane, you must repetitively inspect the stabilizer actuator to confirm the stabilizer actuator lock ring is present, correctly seated in the groove in the upper housing, and engaged in the clamp nut. You must take applicable corrective actions and apply a witness mark (torque seal) as part of those inspections.
Install secondary retention to stop checks
You must install a secondary retention feature on the stabilizer actuator; installing that secondary retention feature is the terminating action that stops the requirement for the repetitive inspections. The installation provides a backup safety feature intended to address the unsafe condition on these airplanes.
Only serviceable actuators may be installed
The proposed AD prohibits the installation of any stabilizer actuator unless it is a serviceable part. This means operators may not install non-serviceable or unapproved actuators on Viking Model DHC-3 airplanes.
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