FAA grounds all Elixir planes after deadly test crash
Published Date: 10/13/2026
Rule
Summary
The FAA just issued a new rule for all Elixir Aircraft Model Elixir planes after a tragic crash during a test flight. Until safety checks or fixes are approved and done, these planes can’t fly. This rule kicks in on October 14, 2026, and owners should expect some downtime and costs while keeping everyone safe.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
All Elixir Model Elixir planes grounded
As of October 14, 2026, all Elixir Aircraft Model Elixir airplanes are prohibited from further flight until approved inspection or modification procedures are identified and the applicable corrective actions are performed. The FAA estimates this AD affects three airplanes of U.S. registry and was issued because of a fatal production-flight accident that is under investigation.
Special flight permits restricted
Special flight permits under 14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199 are not allowed for Elixir Model Elixir airplanes unless they are approved per the procedures in paragraph (i) of the AD (approval by the Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA).
Path to request alternative compliance
Owners or operators may request Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) under 14 CFR 39.19; the Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA, has authority to approve AMOCs and requests must follow the procedures in 14 CFR 39.19 (send requests to the principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office or to the manager identified in the AD).
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