FAA Checks Whether Boeing Fan Cowls Can Stop Debris
Published Date: 10/19/2026
Rule
Summary
If you own or operate Boeing 787-8, 787-9, or 787-10 planes, listen up! The FAA found that a part on the right engine’s left fan cowl might not protect well against engine debris. Starting November 23, 2026, you’ll need to check maintenance records or inspect this part and fix it if needed to keep flying safely—no big cost surprises expected, just smart safety moves.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Possible fan cowl modification or replacement
If the inspection or records check shows the affected fan cowl condition, you must perform on-condition actions which may include modifying or replacing the right engine left fan cowl per Boeing guidance. The FAA estimates modification costs about $5,226 per airplane (6 work-hours at $85/hour = $510 labor plus $4,716 parts) and replacement labor is estimated at 2 work-hours ($170) with parts cost unspecified.
Mandatory inspection or records check
If you operate Boeing 787-8, 787-9, or 787-10 airplanes equipped with Rolls Royce Trent 1000-AE3/CE3/D3/G3/H3/J3/K3 engines, you must perform a maintenance records check or inspect the right engine left fan cowl as required by Boeing Special Attention Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-SB540022-00 RB. This AD is effective November 23, 2026. The FAA estimates the inspection takes 3 work-hours at $85/hour (a $255 cost per airplane) and that 22 U.S.-registered airplanes are affected (total estimated U.S. inspection cost $5,610).
Prohibition on installing certain fan cowls
As of the effective date (November 23, 2026), you may not install right engine left fan cowl part numbers 725Z2300-307, 725Z2300-305, or 725Z2300-5003 on any airplane. This installation ban applies to all airplanes covered by the AD.
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