FAA Mandates Inspections for Pratt & Whitney Engines
Published Date: 6/29/2026
Rule
Summary
If you own or operate Pratt & Whitney Canada PW210A, PW210A1, or PW210S engines, listen up! The FAA found cracks caused by heat stress and now requires regular checks and possible part replacements to keep flights safe. These new rules kick in July 14, 2026, so get ready to inspect or replace parts soon—ignoring this could cost time and money down the line.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 4 costs, 0 mixed.
Required inspections and part replacements
If you own or operate Pratt & Whitney Canada Model PW210A, PW210A1, or PW210S engines, the FAA now requires repetitive visual inspections of the turbine exhaust frame for cracks and replacement of the frame if cracks are found. This rule is effective July 14, 2026 and follows the procedures in Transport Canada AD CF-2026-23.
Estimated compliance and replacement costs
The FAA estimates this AD affects 48 engines on U.S. registry. The FAA estimates a visual inspection costs 0.5 work-hours (0.5 x $85 = $42.50) per engine and totals $2,040 for U.S. operators; if a turbine exhaust frame must be replaced, the FAA estimates labor at 9 work-hours ($765) plus parts at $125,000 for a total of $125,765 per engine.
Urgent initial inspection window
For certain helicopters with the affected engines, the AD requires initial compliance within 5 hours time-in-service or 20 engine starts, whichever occurs first, after the AD becomes effective. That means you may need to inspect engines right away after July 14, 2026.
No requirement to report to manufacturer
Although the referenced service material asks operators to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this FAA AD does not require submitting that information. You do not have to send those reports to the manufacturer to comply with this AD.
How an 'engine start' is counted
The AD defines an 'engine start' to include any engine start for any reason, even if it is not followed by a flight. That definition is used to count the 20 engine starts compliance threshold where applicable.
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