FAA Orders Airbus Flap Fixes to Keep Planes from Flopping
Published Date: 4/14/2026
Rule
Summary
The FAA is making a new rule for certain Airbus A350-1041 airplanes because a part that controls the flaps was installed wrong, which could be unsafe. Airlines must inspect these parts and fix any problems by April 29, 2026. This keeps flights safe and might cost some time and money for inspections and repairs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
A350-1041 Operators: Mandatory Inspection
If you operate an Airbus A350-1041 airplane, the FAA requires you to perform the one-time detailed inspection and any corrective actions specified in EASA AD 2025-0117, with this AD effective April 29, 2026. If any discrepancy is detected, the discrepancy must be repaired before further flight using an FAA-, EASA-, or Airbus-approved method. The FAA estimates the inspection labor at 1 work-hour ($85) and on-condition repair costs up to $25,345 (13 work-hours = $1,105 plus parts up to $24,240).
FAA Action Aims to Prevent Flap Detachment
The AD addresses a misinstalled bracket that can misalign the flap shaft and catcher and could lead to premature wear or rupture, potentially causing a flap surface detachment and reduced airplane control. By requiring inspection and corrective actions (AD effective April 29, 2026), the rule is intended to reduce the risk of such in-flight failures and improve flight safety for passengers and the public.
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