FAA Fixes Pilatus Planes Trapping Folks Inside Emergency Doors
Published Date: 8/28/2026
Rule
Summary
The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. (Pilatus) Model PC-12/47E airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report that the emergency exit door could not be opened from inside an airplane. This AD requires modification of the passenger service unit (PSU) trim panel if dual lock fastener tapes are not installed. This AD also prohibits the installation of affected parts. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory PSU Trim Panel Fix for PC-12/47E
If you operate a Pilatus Model PC-12/47E (manufacturer serial numbers 2001 through 2999), the FAA requires modifying the passenger service unit (PSU) trim panel to prevent the emergency exit door from being blocked. This AD is effective October 2, 2026; the FAA estimates the modification will cost $270 per airplane (labor $170 and parts $100) and affects 276 U.S.-registered airplanes (total estimated cost $74,520).
Installation Ban on Affected Parts
The AD also prohibits installation of the affected PSU trim panel parts so operators and maintenance providers cannot install those parts going forward to avoid blocking the emergency exit. The AD incorporates EASA AD 2025-0182 requirements and the prohibition is effective as part of this AD on October 2, 2026.
Manufacturer May Cover Some Modification Costs
The FAA notes that, according to the manufacturer, some of the costs to comply with this AD may be covered under warranty, which could reduce the cost impact on affected operators.
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