FAA Targets De Havilland Cracks: Proposed Fixes for Safer Skies
Published Date: 1/7/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA wants to fix some cracks found on certain De Havilland DHC-8-401 and -402 airplanes that could cause safety problems. They’re proposing to replace parts like bushings and washers, add reinforcements, and swap out some fittings to keep these planes flying safely. Owners need to comment by February 23, 2026, and should expect some costs and maintenance time to get these fixes done.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Required fixes for DHC‑8‑401/402 elevators
If you own or operate De Havilland DHC-8-401 or DHC-8-402 airplanes, the FAA proposes to require replacing bushings and washers on elevator PCU arm fittings, installing doublers at the elevator front spar, replacing horizontal stabilizer rear spar PCU fittings, and performing specified inspections and on‑condition repairs in accordance with Transport Canada AD CF-2025-19. The FAA says these actions address cracks that could lead to an elevator jam and, if both elevators are affected, loss of pitch control.
FAA cost estimate for affected U.S. airplanes
The FAA estimates the proposed AD would affect 54 U.S.-registered airplanes. The FAA estimates per-airplane costs of up to $21,118 (labor up to 81 work-hours at $85/hour and parts up to $14,233) and total U.S. operator costs up to $1,140,372; on‑condition action costs are not estimated and some costs may be covered under warranty.
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