FAA Proposes Crack Checks for Bombardier Wing and Tail Structures
Published Date: 11/10/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA wants Bombardier CL-600-2B16 (604 Variants) airplane owners to check for cracks in key wing and stabilizer parts to keep flights safe. If cracks are found, repairs must be done quickly. Comments on this plan are open until December 28, 2026, so affected operators should prepare for inspections and possible fixes soon.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory crack inspections and repairs
If you operate a Bombardier CL-600-2B16 (604 Variants) airplane, the FAA would require inspections for cracks of the lower wing plank rear spar web and lower flange (wing station 59 to 65), the forward surface of the pressure bulkhead frame under the stiffeners between left buttock line 9.00 and right buttock line 9.00 at fuselage station 409.00, and the vertical stabilizer front spar to frame attachment fitting lower legs at fuselage station 755.00. If cracks are found, you must perform repair or rectification as specified in Transport Canada AD CF-2024-47 (incorporated by reference).
FAA cost estimate per airplane and nationwide total
The FAA estimates this proposed AD would affect 201 U.S.-registered airplanes. The FAA estimates up to 24 work-hours per airplane at $85 per hour (up to $2,040 per airplane) and $0 parts cost, for a U.S. fleet total of up to $410,040. The FAA has not provided definitive data on the cost of any on-condition repairs or rectifications.
FAA removes manufacturer reporting requirement
Although Transport Canada AD CF-2024-47 specifies submitting certain information to the manufacturer, this FAA proposed AD explicitly does not include that reporting requirement. Operators are not required by this FAA AD to send those reports to the manufacturer.
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