Autopilot Rebellion: FAA Targets Rogue Nose-Diving Jets
Published Date: 9/14/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Bombardier, Inc., Model BD-100-1A10 airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of pitch upset upon autopilot disconnect following engine indication and crew alerting system (EICAS) messages that indicated that the autopilot was holding significant nose up or nose down forces on the elevator. This proposed AD would require revising the existing airplane flight manual (AFM) to change the procedure for the AP STAB TRIM FAIL (C) advisory message from a non- normal procedure to an emergency procedure to provide the flightcrew with emergency procedures to follow to stabilize airspeed in certain conditions. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
AP STAB TRIM FAIL made an emergency
The FAA proposes that the airplane flight manual (AFM) for Bombardier Model BD-100-1A10 airplanes be revised so the AP STAB TRIM FAIL (C) advisory is changed from a non‑normal procedure to an emergency procedure. The change is intended to give flightcrews emergency steps to stabilize airspeed after seeing that message, per Transport Canada AD CF-2025-42 (dated August 26, 2025).
Applies to all BD-100-1A10 airplanes
This proposed AD would apply to all Bombardier, Inc., Model BD-100-1A10 airplanes certificated in any category. The FAA estimates it would affect 680 airplanes of U.S. registry.
Estimated compliance cost: $85 per airplane
The FAA estimates the required action will take 1 work-hour at $85 per hour and $0 parts cost, for an estimated cost of $85 per airplane and a total cost to U.S. operators of $57,800 (680 airplanes).
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Key Dates
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