FAA Mandates Crack Checks on Boeing 747-8F Freighters
Published Date: 11/17/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA wants to make sure Boeing 747-8F airplanes stay safe by checking for cracks in certain parts of the plane’s body. They’re asking owners to inspect specific areas and fix any problems found to keep flights smooth and secure. Comments on this plan are open until January 2, 2026, and these inspections might cost some time and money but are super important for safety.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Estimated compliance costs to U.S. operators
The FAA estimates this proposed AD would affect 11 U.S.-registered airplanes. Estimated labor cost for the radius-filler inspection is up to 124 work-hours (up to $10,540) per airplane and up to $115,940 total for U.S. operators; the detailed cracking inspection is up to 244 work-hours (up to $20,740) per airplane and up to $228,140 total for U.S. operators. On-condition actions include removal/installation of radius fillers at $595 per location and replacement of a cracked splice channel estimated at $26,309 per replacement (300 work-hours = $25,500 labor + $809 parts).
Mandatory inspections for 747-8F stringers
The FAA would require inspections of each free flange of the stringers at the stringer splice, and detailed inspections for cracking of stringers and stringer splice fittings on Boeing Model 747-8F airplanes identified as Group 3 in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 747-53A2907 RB, Revision 1, dated March 14, 2025. These actions must be done at the times specified in that Boeing requirements bulletin.
Manufacturer warranty may reduce operator costs
The FAA notes the manufacturer has told the agency that some or all costs of complying with this proposed AD may be covered under warranty, which could reduce the cost impact on affected operators.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-15585, Requirements for Interference-Tolerant Radio Altimeter Systems
In July 2025, President Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Section 40002 of that law re-institutes the Federal Communications Commission's general auction authority and specifically directs the Commission to complete a system of competitive bidding for not less than 100 megahertz in the 3.98-4.2 gigahertz band (Upper C- band). This final rule supports the Federal Communications Commission's July 2026 Report and Order that makes 160 megahertz of the Upper C-band available for terrestrial wireless flexible use via a system of competitive bidding. To ensure safe, efficient, and reliable aviation operations in the presence of wireless signals in the C-band, the Federal Aviation Administration is issuing new regulations that require all radio altimeters to meet specific minimum performance requirements. These new radio altimeters must withstand interference from wireless signals in neighboring spectrum bands and continue to provide accurate altitude readings to both pilots and integrated aircraft safety systems. These regulations require all aircraft equipped with radio altimeters operating under part 121 and those aircraft with radio altimeters operating under part 129 with 30 or more passenger seats or a payload capacity of more than 7,500 pounds to comply with the minimum performance requirements by December 30, 2030, which is prior to the date the Federal Communications Commission authorizes the use of the Upper C-band for new wireless services, as stated in its Report and Order. All other aircraft equipped with radio altimeters that are required to comply with part 91, including aircraft operating under parts 125, 133, 135, 136, 137, 194, and all other aircraft operating under part 129 that are not subject to the initial deadline, must comply with the same minimum performance requirements on or before October 31, 2034.
2026-13440, Enabling Supersonic Overland Flight
The FAA wants to let supersonic planes fly over land again by updating old rules that banned them because of loud sonic booms. Thanks to new tech that keeps booms quiet, this change will open the door for faster, cooler flights across the U.S., helping America lead the world in supersonic travel. People and companies interested in supersonic flight should share their thoughts by August 17, 2026.
2026-13126, Designation-Restrict the Operation of Unmanned Aircraft in Close Proximity to a Fixed Site Facility; Extension of Comment Period
The FAA is giving more time—until August 5, 2026—for people to share their thoughts on new rules that would limit drone flights near important fixed sites like power plants or airports. This affects drone operators and facility owners who want to keep the skies safe and secure. No new costs yet, just extra time to weigh in and help shape the rules.
2026-08943, Designation-Restrict the Operation of Unmanned Aircraft in Close Proximity to a Fixed Site Facility
The FAA is proposing new rules to keep drones away from certain important fixed sites like power plants or airports to keep everyone safe and secure. If you own or operate one of these sites, you can request a drone flight restriction zone to protect your property and people nearby. Comments are open until July 6, 2026, and these changes could affect drone pilots and site operators, but no big costs are expected.
2025-04846, Extension of the Prohibition Against Certain Flights in the Territory and Airspace of Libya
The FAA is extending the ban on certain flights over Libya for three more years, until March 20, 2028. This affects U.S. airlines, commercial operators, and pilots with FAA certificates flying in Libyan airspace, due to ongoing safety risks. The rule also reminds everyone how to apply for special approvals or exemptions if needed.
2025-03853, Enforcement Policy Regarding “Drug and Alcohol Testing of Certificated Repair Station Employees Located Outside of the United States; Correction”
The FAA is giving repair stations outside the U.S. a break by delaying enforcement of new drug and alcohol testing rules until March 20, 2025. This means affected repair stations don’t have to worry about penalties if they aren’t fully following the updated rules just yet. The delay helps everyone get ready without rushing or extra costs.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-20008, Implementing Voluntary Agreements Under the Defense Production Act
The Department of Energy is rolling out a new plan to make voluntary agreements under the Defense Production Act easier and clearer. This affects companies involved in nuclear energy and national energy security, inviting them to share feedback by November 24, 2025. These agreements aim to boost the nuclear industry during energy emergencies without forcing anyone, helping keep the lights on and the country safe.
Next: 2025-20011, Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes
The FAA wants to update safety rules for certain Airbus A318, A319, A320, and A321 airplanes by adding stricter maintenance checks and including a couple of new models. This means airlines must revise their inspection programs to keep these planes safe and sound. Comments on this proposal are open until January 2, 2026, and while it may cost some time and money, it’s all about keeping flights safe!