Battery Blues: FAA Updates Pilatus Start Procedure to Avoid Shutdowns
Published Date: 1/21/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
Pilatus PC-12/47E airplane owners, heads up! The FAA wants you to update your pilot’s handbook with a new engine start procedure because the battery voltage can drop and shut down important systems. You’ve got until March 9, 2026, to share your thoughts before this safety fix becomes official—no big costs, just safer flights!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Pilatus PC-12/47E POH Start Procedure Change
If you own a Pilatus Model PC-12/47E with manufacturer serial number 1720 or 2001 through 2999, the FAA proposes requiring you to insert Pilatus POH Temporary Revision No. 31 into your pilot’s operating handbook to use an enhanced engine start procedure. The FAA estimates this action takes 1 work-hour at $85 per airplane, would affect 265 U.S.-registered airplanes, and yields a total estimated cost to U.S. operators of $22,525.
Pilot Allowed to Revise POH Themselves
The FAA says the owner/operator who holds at least a private pilot certificate may perform the POH revision and must record compliance in the aircraft maintenance records per 14 CFR 43.9(a) and 91.417(a)(2)(v). The rule makes this an allowed action for a pilot (not requiring a mechanic) as an exception to standard maintenance regulations.
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