Flap Wear Alert: FAA Orders Checks on Vintage ATR Planes
Published Date: 2/26/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA wants all ATR42-200, -300, and -320 airplanes checked for worn flap parts that could cause safety problems. They’re asking for a special inspection and fixes if needed to keep flights safe. Comments on this plan are open until April 13, 2026, and airlines should be ready to act soon to avoid costly issues.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory flap asymmetry inspection
If you operate an ATR--GIE Avions de Transport Régional Model ATR42-200, -300, or -320 airplane, the FAA would require a special detailed inspection (SDI) of the flap asymmetry detection mechanism and corrective actions when discrepancies are found. The proposed AD incorporates EASA AD 2025-0087 (dated April 16, 2025) by reference and requires following its required actions and compliance times.
Estimated compliance cost per airplane
The FAA estimates the SDI will take 2 work-hours at $85 per hour, totaling $170 per airplane in labor and $0 in parts. The FAA estimates the rule would affect 17 U.S.-registered ATR42-200/-300/-320 airplanes for a total estimated cost to U.S. operators of $2,890.
No reporting requirement to manufacturer
Although EASA AD 2025-0087 specifies submitting certain information to the manufacturer, this FAA proposed AD explicitly does not include that reporting requirement. Operators therefore would not have to submit that specified information to the manufacturer under this FAA AD.
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