Boeing Planes Get Crackdown: FAA Orders Winglet Checks
Published Date: 2/26/2026
Rule
Summary
The FAA just issued a new rule for certain Boeing 757-200 and -300 planes with scimitar blended winglets because cracks were found. Airlines must inspect these planes for cracks and fix any problems to keep flying safely. This rule starts February 26, 2026, and comments are open until April 13, 2026, so operators should act fast to avoid costly repairs later.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Repairs Before Flight; Unknown Repair Costs
If an inspection finds any crack, the AD requires the airplane be repaired before further flight using an FAA-approved method. The FAA states it has no definitive data to estimate on-condition repair costs, and the unsafe condition could lead to reduced structural integrity or partial wing loss if not addressed.
Immediate Inspections Required for 757 Winglets
If you operate Boeing 757-200 or -300 airplanes with scimitar blended winglets, you must do an external detailed (visual) inspection and an external high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection of the wing lower skin panel between wing station (WSTA) 711.5 and WSTA 743.5 on the left and right wing within 5 days after February 26, 2026. If you find any crack, you must repair it before further flight and special flight permits are not allowed unless approved.
Estimated Inspection Cost per Aircraft
The FAA estimates the required detailed and HFEC inspections will take 2 work-hours at $85 per hour, for an estimated cost of $170 per airplane. The FAA estimates the rule affects 156 U.S.-registered airplanes, with a total estimated cost to U.S. operators of $26,520.
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