Pilatus Owners: Swap That Faulty Relay to Avoid Windshield Woes
Published Date: 5/13/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
Pilatus PC-24 airplane owners need to fix a windshield heater problem that could cause electrical issues. The FAA wants to replace a faulty part called a solid-state relay to keep flights safe. Comments on this fix are open until June 29, 2026, and the update might cost some time and money but keeps everyone flying worry-free.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
Mandatory SSR replacement on PC-24s
If you operate a Pilatus Model PC-24 airplane identified in EASA AD 2026-0008 (dated January 15, 2026), the FAA proposes you must modify the airplane and replace the left-hand windshield heating solid-state relay (SSR) with a serviceable part. This action is required to prevent reverse current flow in the SSR that could cause the emergency windshield heat to fail and lead to loss of outside visibility.
FAA estimated compliance cost and scope
The FAA estimates this proposed AD would affect 168 U.S.-registered Pilatus PC-24 airplanes. The FAA estimates 125 airplanes would require SSR and cable replacement at an estimated cost per airplane of $1,457 (5 work-hours at $85/hour plus $1,032 parts) and 43 airplanes would require SSR replacement at an estimated cost per airplane of $244.50 (2.5 work-hours at $85/hour plus $32 parts), for a combined estimated cost to U.S. operators of $192,638.50.
Possible manufacturer warranty coverage
The FAA notes the manufacturer stated that some costs to comply with the proposed AD may be covered under warranty, which could reduce the out-of-pocket cost for affected operators. Operators should check with the manufacturer about warranty coverage for the SSR replacement.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
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.
2026-09972 — Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposals, Submissions, and Approvals: Mitsubishi MU-2B Series Airplane Training Requirements
The FAA is renewing its paperwork rules for pilots flying the Mitsubishi MU-2B airplane to make sure they get special training and follow safety steps. This affects MU-2B pilots who must keep records proving they completed the required training. Comments on this plan are open until June 18, 2026, and the goal is to keep flying safer without adding extra hassle or costs.
2026-09953 — Agency Information Collection Activities: Requests for Comments; Clearance of Renewed Approval of Information Collection: Experimental Aircraft: Letters of Deviation Authority (LODA)
The FAA is renewing its approval to collect info from pilots who want special permission to give paid flight lessons in experimental aircraft. This helps make sure these lessons are safe. If you’re involved, you can comment by June 18, 2026, and there’s no new cost—just the usual paperwork.
2026-09971 — Notice of Draft FAA Order 5100-38E, Airport Improvement Program Handbook
The FAA is updating its Airport Improvement Program Handbook to reflect new laws and policies since 2017. This affects airports, states, and contractors who rely on federal funding for airport projects. You can review the draft and share your thoughts by August 17, 2026, so the FAA can finalize the new guide and keep airport funding running smoothly.
2026-09942 — Establishment of Class E Airspace; Geneva, OH
The FAA wants to create new Class E airspace around the University Hospitals Geneva Medical Center Heliport in Geneva, Ohio. This change will help pilots use special instrument flying rules safely when landing or taking off. If you have thoughts, you’ve got until July 2, 2026, to speak up—no costs or fees involved!
2026-09771 — Airworthiness Directives; Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Airplanes
Pilatus PC-12 airplane owners and operators, heads up! The FAA is updating safety rules to fix a problem that could affect certain planes, meaning some extra checks or fixes might be needed. Comments on these changes are open until June 29, 2026, so get involved before then—these updates could cost some time and money but keep everyone flying safe.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-09574 — Airworthiness Directives; Diamond Aircraft Industries Inc. Airplanes
The FAA wants all Diamond Aircraft DA 40 series planes to update their flight manuals and check their passenger doors because some doors have come loose during flights. Pilots and owners will need to inspect, fix, or replace door parts to keep everyone safe. Comments on this plan are open until June 29, 2026, and these fixes might cost some time and money but will stop scary door problems in the sky!
Next: 2026-09603 — Alaska: Tentative Determination on Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program
Alaska wants to take charge of managing its hazardous waste instead of the federal government. The EPA thinks Alaska’s plan meets all the rules and is ready to give final approval, but they’re asking for public comments until July 2, 2026. If approved, Alaska will run the program, but the EPA will still handle certain federal lands and Native areas.