EASA AD US-2026-15-05
Wings - Airworthiness Limitation Section - Amendment
Summary
The Wings - Airworthiness Limitation Section - Amendment is a final rule airworthiness directive issued by the FAA affecting Textron Aviation Inc. Model B300 and B300C airplanes. It mandates revisions to the Airworthiness Limitations section of the aircraft maintenance manual to update inspection intervals for detecting cracks in the wing spar and supporting structures. This directive addresses safety concerns related to structural integrity for airplanes operating at different maximum takeoff weights.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces revised wing inspection intervals based on airplane operating hours, distinguishing between airplanes certified or operating at 15,000 lb. and 16,500 lb. maximum takeoff weights. It requires incorporation of Textron Mandatory Service Letter MTL-57-04, Revision 1, dated March 27, 2025, into the maintenance and inspection programs. The directive replaces previously incorrect inspection intervals to better detect potential cracks in wing structures.
Why It Matters
This amendment is critical for aviation professionals because it ensures that inspection intervals accurately reflect the structural risks associated with different operating weights, preventing undetected cracks that could lead to wing separation in flight. Operators and maintenance organizations must update their maintenance manuals and inspection programs to comply, thereby maintaining aircraft airworthiness and safety. Compliance reduces the risk of catastrophic structural failures and aligns maintenance practices with manufacturer and FAA safety standards.
What To Do
Affected operators must revise the Airworthiness Limitations section of their aircraft maintenance manuals or instructions for continued airworthiness and update their approved maintenance or inspection programs to incorporate the new inspection intervals specified in Textron Mandatory Service Letter MTL-57-04, Revision 1. These changes must be implemented by August 10, 2026. Operators should also submit any comments on the directive by September 8, 2026, following FAA procedures.
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