Boeing 767 Cargo Tracks Get X-Rayed for Fake Titanium
Published Date: 9/17/2026
Rule
Summary
The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 767-300F series airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report of a supplier notice of escapement documenting that some titanium cargo track crown fittings had suspect material certifications. This AD requires an X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometer inspection to identify the material composition of the cargo track crown fittings or replacement of all cargo track crown fittings with new cargo track crown fittings, and applicable on- condition actions. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory XRF Inspection or Replacement
If you operate The Boeing Company Model 767-300F airplanes, you must perform an X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometer inspection to identify the material of the cargo track crown fittings or replace all cargo track crown fittings with new fittings. The AD applies to certain 767-300F airplanes as identified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-53A0337 RB, dated October 17, 2025, and is effective October 22, 2026; on-condition replacements must use Ti-6Al-4V alloy fittings.
Estimated Compliance Costs for U.S. Fleet
The FAA estimates this AD affects 43 U.S.-registered airplanes. The agency estimates an XRF inspection costs $7,820 per airplane (92 work-hours at $85/hour) and full replacement costs $76,800 per airplane (156 work-hours at $85/hour plus $63,540 parts), with total U.S. operator costs up to $336,260 for inspections and up to $3,302,400 for replacements.
Possible Warranty Coverage Reduces Costs
The FAA notes that, according to the manufacturer, some or all of the costs of this AD may be covered under warranty, which could reduce the cost impact on affected operators.
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