Bolt Check Time: FAA Mandates Airplane Hardware Replacements
Published Date: 4/21/2026
Rule
Summary
If you fly MHI RJ Aviation ULC regional jets (formerly Bombardier models), listen up! The FAA is updating safety rules to not just keep checking bolts on the horizontal stabilizer but also replace some hardware to keep flights safe. These changes kick in May 26, 2026, and might cost some time and money but are super important for safe skies.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Fix to Prevent Stabilizer Loss
The AD addresses reports of loose or missing bolts on the H‑stab anti‑yaw steady fitting block that, when combined with a bird strike or gust loading, may result in loss of the horizontal stabilizer and consequent loss of control of the airplane. The FAA issued this AD to eliminate that unsafe condition and protect flight safety.
Mandatory H‑stab Hardware Replacement
If you operate the listed MHI RJ/Bombardier regional jets, the FAA requires you to continue repetitive torque checks and to replace the horizontal stabilizer (H‑stab) anti‑yaw steady fitting block hardware. This requirement applies to the specified CL‑600‑2C10, CL‑600‑2C11, CL‑600‑2D15, CL‑600‑2D24, and CL‑600‑2E25 models and is effective May 26, 2026.
Estimated Compliance Costs and Scope
The FAA estimates this AD affects 597 U.S.-registered airplanes. The retained actions from AD 2025-22-02 are estimated up to $510 per airplane (up to $304,470 for U.S. operators), the new required actions are estimated $622 per airplane (labor 7 hours at $85/hour plus $27 parts) totaling $371,334 for U.S. operators, and any on‑condition action would be up to $113 per product (1 hour labor + up to $28 parts).
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