FAA Mandates Extra Checks on Pratt & Whitney Turbine Exhaust Frames
Published Date: 8/14/2026
Rule
Summary
If you own or work with Pratt & Whitney Canada PW210A series engines, listen up! The FAA updated the rules for checking turbine exhaust frames because some frames made from certain materials crack more easily. Starting August 31, 2026, you’ll need to inspect these parts more carefully and replace them if needed to keep flights safe—so plan for some extra checks and possible repairs soon.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
High cost of on-condition replacements
If inspections find cracks, replacement of the turbine exhaust frame may be required. The FAA estimates on-condition replacement costs per product at $125,765 (parts $125,000 plus 9 work-hours at $85/hour = $765).
Material-based earlier inspection schedule
Operators of Pratt & Whitney Canada Model PW210A, PW210A1, and PW210S engines must perform repetitive visual inspections of the turbine exhaust frame for cracks at new initial inspection thresholds that vary depending on the material used in manufacture. This AD supersedes AD 2026-13-09 and requires compliance with Transport Canada Emergency AD CF-2026-35 as incorporated, effective August 31, 2026. The FAA estimates this AD affects 48 engines on U.S. registry.
Immediate short compliance window
For certain engines, the AD requires initial actions to be done within 5 hours time-in-service or 20 engine starts after the effective date, whichever occurs first. The rule is effective August 31, 2026, and the FAA adopted this short compliance time without prior public comment because of the safety risk from thermal-stress cracks.
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