Glider owners must fix engine cracks or risk mid-air mishaps, FAA warns
Published Date: 4/3/2026
Rule
Summary
If you own or maintain a DG-1000M glider, listen up! The FAA found cracks near the engine mount and is requiring inspections, belt tension checks, propeller balancing, and installing a new carbon fiber bracket to keep your glider safe. These changes kick in April 20, 2026, so get ready to update your maintenance routine and avoid costly repairs down the line.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Immediate inspections and fixes required
If you own or maintain a DG-1000M glider, you must update maintenance manual page 0.13 and inspect the engine mount for cracks before the next engine operation after April 20, 2026. If cracks are found, you must repair or replace the engine mount before further flight; you must also perform a powerplant belt tension inspection before the next engine operation.
Bracket installation and propeller balancing deadline
You must install a carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) bracket P/N 10M227 and perform dynamic balancing of the propeller assembly within 15 hours time-in-service (TIS) of engine operation or 11 months, whichever occurs first after April 20, 2026. Installation and balancing are required even if inspections show no cracks.
Engine mount installation restriction
As of April 20, 2026, you may not install a steel frame engine mount with part number (P/N) 10M112 on any glider unless that part is a "serviceable part" (new or passed the engine mount inspection per DG Aviation Technical Note TM1000-51).
One-time special ferry flight allowed (limited)
The AD allows a one-time special flight permit under 14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199 to fly a glider to a maintenance base only to perform the required actions, but the permit must specify that the engine not be operated. This permit is limited to moving the glider for compliance work.
Manufacturer software return not required by AD
Although the DG Aviation technical note asks to send front and rear cockpit DEI-NTs and the control unit (E-box) to DG Aviation for software updates, this AD does not require sending those items to DG Aviation for software updates.
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