EASA AD US-2026-01-04: Fuselage - Ram Air Turbine Forward Fittings - Inspection

What to do

Operators of Boeing 787-9 and 787-10 airplanes must perform the required HFEC or handheld XRF spectrometer inspections of the RAT forward fittings by February 20, 2026, or within the compliance times specified in the Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin. If incorrect titanium alloy material is detected, they must carry out the specified on-condition inspections, repairs, or replacements promptly. All actions must follow the procedures in the referenced Boeing service and requirements bulletins.

Summary

EASA AD US-2026-01-04 is a final airworthiness directive issued by the FAA addressing certain Boeing 787-9 and 787-10 airplanes. It mandates inspections of the ram air turbine (RAT) forward fittings to verify the titanium alloy material used in their manufacture. The directive aims to prevent potential failures related to incorrect material composition that could compromise backup hydraulic and electrical power.

What changed

This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory inspections using high frequency eddy current (HFEC) or handheld X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometer methods to determine the titanium alloy material of the RAT forward fittings. It also requires on-condition actions such as additional inspections, repairs, or replacement if incorrect materials are found. The AD clarifies that either HFEC or XRF inspections are acceptable for compliance.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations because incorrect titanium alloy in RAT forward fittings could lead to loss of backup hydraulic or electrical power and possible detachment of the RAT module. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and safety of affected Boeing 787-9 and 787-10 aircraft. It also provides clear inspection methods and corrective actions to mitigate risks associated with the manufacturing defect.

What to do

Summary

What changed

Why it matters

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