FAA Calls for Pilatus Plane Checks to Avoid Mid-Air Mishaps
Published Date: 5/15/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
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.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory Inspection and Possible Fix
The proposed AD would require a visual inspection of the passenger service unit (PSU) trim panel to check for dual lock fastener tapes and would require modifying the PSU trim panel if the tapes are not installed. The FAA estimates the inspection takes 1 work-hour (1 x $85 = $85) and any required modification would take 2 work-hours (2 x $85 = $170) plus $270 in parts, for a $440 on-condition cost per airplane.
Which Pilatus Planes Are Affected
This proposed airworthiness directive would apply to Pilatus Model PC-12/47E airplanes with manufacturer serial numbers 2001 through 2999 that are certificated in any category. The FAA estimates 276 airplanes of U.S. registry would be affected.
Prohibition on Installing Affected Parts
The SNPRM incorporates EASA AD 2025-0182, which prohibits installation of the affected PSU trim panel part; this proposed FAA AD would likewise prohibit installing the affected part on applicable airplanes. The FAA notes some costs may be covered under warranty by the manufacturer.
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.
2026-09953 — 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.
2026-09972 — 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.
2026-09971 — 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!
2026-09772 — Airworthiness Directives; Diamond Aircraft Industries Inc. Airplanes
If you own a Diamond Aircraft DA20-C1, listen up! The FAA found that some emergency locator transmitters might not work because of a missing wire. They want owners to check the connector and fix any problems ASAP to keep flights safe—comments on this plan are open until June 29, 2026, and the fix could save lives without breaking the bank.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-09765 — Special Local Regulation; Marine Events Within the USCG East District
The Coast Guard wants to add special safety rules for three yearly high-speed boat races on the York, East, and Elizabeth Rivers in Virginia. These new rules aim to keep everyone safe during these exciting events and will affect boaters and event organizers in the area. If you have thoughts, send them in by May 20, 2026—no fees or costs are changing, just safer waters!
Next: 2026-09772 — Airworthiness Directives; Diamond Aircraft Industries Inc. Airplanes
If you own a Diamond Aircraft DA20-C1, listen up! The FAA found that some emergency locator transmitters might not work because of a missing wire. They want owners to check the connector and fix any problems ASAP to keep flights safe—comments on this plan are open until June 29, 2026, and the fix could save lives without breaking the bank.