FAA Mandates GE Engine Hose Swaps to Prevent Fuel Leaks
Published Date: 3/19/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA wants to fix a fuel leak problem in certain General Electric GEnx engines by making airlines replace faulty fuel tube hoses with safe ones. This affects many GE engine models and aims to keep flights safe and smooth. Comments on this plan are open until May 4, 2026, and airlines should prepare for the cost and work to swap out these parts soon.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
Estimated Replacement Costs for U.S. Operators
The FAA estimates this AD would affect 13 engines on U.S. registry and provides per-action cost estimates: replacing the FCOC fuel return hose manifold (P/N 2426M07P01) is estimated at 8 work-hours × $85/hr = $680 labor plus $1,521 parts for $2,201 per product ($24,211 total for U.S. operators); replacing the FCOC fuel cooling inlet tube hose (P/N 2426M08P01) is $680 labor + $1,695 parts = $2,375 per product ($26,125 total); replacing the heat exchanger fuel tube hose (P/N 2477M34P01) is $680 labor + $1,090 parts = $1,770 per product ($3,540 total); and replacing the heat exchanger inlet fuel tube hose (P/N 2477M35P01) is $680 labor + $1,313 parts = $1,993 per product ($3,986 total).
Mandatory Hose Replacement for GE GEnx Engines
If you operate aircraft with affected General Electric GEnx-1B or GEnx-2B engines, the FAA would require removal of specific fuel tube hoses identified by part numbers 2426M07P01, 2426M08P01, 2477M34P01, and 2477M35P01 when their preform manufacturing lot number is 684141 or 677536. The rule requires identification at the next engine shop visit and replacement with parts eligible for installation to prevent cracking, fuel leakage, and possible uncontrolled engine fire.
Small-Entity Economic Finding
The FAA certified that this proposed airworthiness directive would not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the Regulatory Flexibility Act. Small businesses should note the FAA's determination even though specific replacement costs are provided for affected engines.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-15585, Requirements for Interference-Tolerant Radio Altimeter Systems
In July 2025, President Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Section 40002 of that law re-institutes the Federal Communications Commission's general auction authority and specifically directs the Commission to complete a system of competitive bidding for not less than 100 megahertz in the 3.98-4.2 gigahertz band (Upper C- band). This final rule supports the Federal Communications Commission's July 2026 Report and Order that makes 160 megahertz of the Upper C-band available for terrestrial wireless flexible use via a system of competitive bidding. To ensure safe, efficient, and reliable aviation operations in the presence of wireless signals in the C-band, the Federal Aviation Administration is issuing new regulations that require all radio altimeters to meet specific minimum performance requirements. These new radio altimeters must withstand interference from wireless signals in neighboring spectrum bands and continue to provide accurate altitude readings to both pilots and integrated aircraft safety systems. These regulations require all aircraft equipped with radio altimeters operating under part 121 and those aircraft with radio altimeters operating under part 129 with 30 or more passenger seats or a payload capacity of more than 7,500 pounds to comply with the minimum performance requirements by December 30, 2030, which is prior to the date the Federal Communications Commission authorizes the use of the Upper C-band for new wireless services, as stated in its Report and Order. All other aircraft equipped with radio altimeters that are required to comply with part 91, including aircraft operating under parts 125, 133, 135, 136, 137, 194, and all other aircraft operating under part 129 that are not subject to the initial deadline, must comply with the same minimum performance requirements on or before October 31, 2034.
2026-13440, Enabling Supersonic Overland Flight
The FAA wants to let supersonic planes fly over land again by updating old rules that banned them because of loud sonic booms. Thanks to new tech that keeps booms quiet, this change will open the door for faster, cooler flights across the U.S., helping America lead the world in supersonic travel. People and companies interested in supersonic flight should share their thoughts by August 17, 2026.
2026-13126, Designation-Restrict the Operation of Unmanned Aircraft in Close Proximity to a Fixed Site Facility; Extension of Comment Period
The FAA is giving more time—until August 5, 2026—for people to share their thoughts on new rules that would limit drone flights near important fixed sites like power plants or airports. This affects drone operators and facility owners who want to keep the skies safe and secure. No new costs yet, just extra time to weigh in and help shape the rules.
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.
2025-04846, Extension of the Prohibition Against Certain Flights in the Territory and Airspace of Libya
The FAA is extending the ban on certain flights over Libya for three more years, until March 20, 2028. This affects U.S. airlines, commercial operators, and pilots with FAA certificates flying in Libyan airspace, due to ongoing safety risks. The rule also reminds everyone how to apply for special approvals or exemptions if needed.
2025-03853, Enforcement Policy Regarding “Drug and Alcohol Testing of Certificated Repair Station Employees Located Outside of the United States; Correction”
The FAA is giving repair stations outside the U.S. a break by delaying enforcement of new drug and alcohol testing rules until March 20, 2025. This means affected repair stations don’t have to worry about penalties if they aren’t fully following the updated rules just yet. The delay helps everyone get ready without rushing or extra costs.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-05401, Publication or Submission of Quotations Without Specified Information
The SEC is updating rules for brokers and dealers about sharing stock price quotes outside big exchanges. Now, the rules will only apply to equity securities (stocks), making things clearer and simpler. If you’re in the business, get ready to comment by May 18, 2026, and keep an eye on how this might affect your quoting process and paperwork.
Next: 2026-05405, Priority Mail Express and Priority Mail Open and Distribute Parcel Mailings Discontinued
Starting July 12, 2026, the Postal Service will stop offering Priority Mail Express and Priority Mail Open and Distribute for parcels as a regular service. This change mainly affects businesses and mailers who send parcels this way, but don’t worry—these parcel services will still be available through special agreements. If you use these services, keep an eye out for new options and get ready to adjust your mailing plans!