FAA Mandates Stabilizer Checks for Textron Planes
Published Date: 4/29/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
If you own or work with certain Textron Aviation Model 408 airplanes, get ready for some important updates! The FAA wants you to add new detailed inspections for parts of the airplane’s stabilizers to keep flights safe. You’ll need to update your maintenance manuals by June 15, 2026, and while this might cost some time and money, it’s all about flying safer and smarter.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
New stabilizer spar inspections required
If you own or work on Textron Model 408 airplanes (serial numbers -0012 through -0051), you must revise the Airworthiness Limitations Section of the maintenance manual within 150 hours time-in-service or 12 months after the AD's effective date. The revision adds detailed inspections for the horizontal and vertical stabilizer spars with an interval of 1,600 flight hours (Task 55-10-00-221 for horizontal and Task 55-30-00-221 for vertical).
FAA cost estimate for compliance
The FAA estimates this proposed AD affects 28 U.S.-registered Model 408 airplanes. The agency estimates revising the ALS will take 1 work-hour at $85 per airplane, costing $85 per product and $2,380 total to U.S. operators.
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