Airbus A330s Get Ice-Fighting Parts Mandatory Inspections
Published Date: 9/17/2026
Rule
Summary
The FAA is making new rules for certain Airbus A330 airplanes because some parts that help prevent ice buildup were found cracked or broken. Airlines must check these parts regularly and fix or replace them if needed, starting October 22, 2026. This keeps flights safe but might cost some money for inspections and repairs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Required inspections, mods, and part limits
If you operate Airbus A330-243/243F/341/342/343 airplanes, you must follow required repetitive special detailed inspections (borescope SDIs) and, for certain parts, modify the nacelle inlet cowl parts as specified in EASA AD 2025-0164. The AD also prohibits repair FRSZ026 on any affected part and limits installing affected parts under specified conditions; it is effective October 22, 2026, and the FAA estimates a compliance cost up to $12,098 per airplane (labor $425 + parts up to $11,673) and a U.S. fleet cost up to $846,860 for 70 airplanes of U.S. registry.
No manufacturer reporting required
Although EASA AD 2025-0164 asked operators to submit certain information to the manufacturer, the FAA AD does not include any requirement to submit that information. This change (effective October 22, 2026) removes the reporting obligation to the manufacturer that the EASA AD specified.
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