FAA Orders 747 Crack Checks by August
Published Date: 7/2/2026
Rule
Summary
The FAA is requiring inspections on certain Boeing 747-8F airplanes to check for cracks in key parts of the plane’s body. These inspections must start by August 6, 2026, to keep flights safe and sound. Airlines will need to act quickly if cracks are found, which might cost some time and money but keeps everyone flying safely.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Inspection cost estimates for U.S. operators
The FAA estimates the inspection cost per affected U.S. airplane is up to $10,540 for the radius-filler inspection and up to $20,740 for the cracking inspection. The AD affects 11 U.S.-registered airplanes, so the FAA estimates costs on U.S. operators of up to $115,940 and up to $228,140, respectively.
Mandatory inspections for Boeing 747-8F
The FAA requires inspections of specific Boeing Model 747-8F (Group 3) airplanes to check stringers and splice fittings for cracking. The inspections must be done per Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 747-53A2907 RB, Revision 1, and the AD is effective August 6, 2026; it applies to airplanes identified as Group 3 in that bulletin.
On-condition repair cost breakdown
If inspections find problems, the FAA lists on-condition costs: $85 per inspection location, $595 per location to remove/install radius fillers (7 work-hours at $85/hour), and $26,309 per replacement of a cracked splice channel (300 work-hours at $85/hour plus $809 parts). The AD states the FAA cannot predict how many aircraft will need these actions.
FAA finds no significant small-entity impact
The FAA identified two carriers affected by the AD and determined both are large businesses under SBA size standards, so it certified under the Regulatory Flexibility Act that the AD will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.
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