FAA Orders Disconnect of Faulty Recorder on Bombardier Jets
Published Date: 11/18/2025
Rule
Summary
If you fly a Bombardier CL-600-2B16 (604 Variant), listen up! The FAA found that a flap system recorder can mess with the flap controls, causing warning messages or unexpected flap moves. Starting December 23, 2025, you must disconnect this recorder and never install it again to keep flights safe—no big costs, just peace of mind.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory FSOBR Disconnect and Ban
If you operate or fly on a Bombardier CL-600-2B16 (604 Variant), the FAA requires disconnecting the flap system on-board recorder (FSOBR) and bans reinstalling it. As of December 23, 2025, no person may reconnect or install FSOBR unit part number 604-70201-1 or FSOBR harness part number 604-57140-3 on any airplane; the AD was issued to address Flap Fail messages and possible uncommanded flap movement that could lead to loss of control.
Compliance Time and Operator Cost
For airplanes that have incorporated Bombardier Service Bulletin 604-27-035, 605-27-006, or 650-27-001 as of December 23, 2025, operators must disconnect the FSOBR within 1,000 flight hours or 14 months (whichever occurs first) after that date. The FAA estimates up to 3 work-hours at $85/hour (up to $255) per airplane to comply, affecting 442 U.S.-registered airplanes for a total estimated cost up to $112,710; the manufacturer may cover some costs under warranty.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
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.
2026-11792 — Modification of Class E Airspace, Omak Airport, Omak, WA
The FAA is changing the Class E airspace around Omak Airport in Washington to make flying safer and smoother for pilots using instruments. This update starts on September 3, 2026, and mainly affects pilots flying under instrument flight rules (IFR). No extra costs for the public, just better airspace management to keep flights on track!
2026-11729 — Standard Instrument Approach Procedures, and Takeoff Minimums and Obstacle Departure Procedures; Miscellaneous Amendments
The FAA is updating the rules for how pilots approach and take off from certain airports to keep flights safe and smooth. These changes include new or revised flight paths and obstacle rules based on new technology and airspace updates. Pilots and airports affected need to follow these updates starting June 11, 2026, with no extra costs involved.
2026-11730 — Standard Instrument Approach Procedures, and Takeoff Minimums and Obstacle Departure Procedures; Miscellaneous Amendments
Starting June 11, 2026, the FAA is updating how pilots approach and take off from certain airports to keep flights safe and smooth. These changes affect pilots and airports by adjusting flight paths and safety rules based on new tech and obstacles. No big costs here—just smarter, safer skies for everyone flying under instrument rules!
2026-11637 — Establishment of Class E Airspace; Crown Point, IN
The FAA is creating new Class E airspace around the Franciscan Health Crown Point Hospital Heliport in Crown Point, Indiana. This change helps pilots use special instrument flight rules safely and starts on October 29, 2026. It mainly affects pilots flying in and out of this heliport, with no extra costs for the public.
2026-11560 — Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters
If you fly or fix Airbus Helicopters like the AS350 or EC130 models, listen up! The FAA fixed some timing mistakes in the old safety checks for the main gearbox parts and now wants you to keep inspecting and fixing them on a new schedule. These updated rules kick in July 14, 2026, and help keep your helicopter safe without extra costs beyond regular maintenance.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-20028 — Amendment of VOR Federal Airways V-55, V-100, and V-277 in the Vicinity of Keeler, MI; Correction
The FAA fixed a mistake in their September 2025 update to three airways near Keeler, Michigan, making sure the V-55 route matches earlier changes near Indiana. Pilots flying these routes will see clearer, corrected paths starting November 27, 2025, with no extra costs involved. This keeps the skies safe and navigation smooth as the FAA updates its network.
Next: 2025-20095 — Air Plan Approval; Arizona; Yuma 2015 8-Hour Ozone Nonattainment Area; Redesignation Request and Maintenance Plan
The EPA is officially giving a thumbs-up to Arizona’s plan that shows Yuma’s air is cleaner and meets ozone pollution standards from 2015. This means Yuma moves from a ‘problem area’ to a ‘good air zone,’ with rules to keep the air fresh through 2037. The change kicks in December 18, 2025, helping local drivers and communities breathe easier without extra costs.