EASA AD US-2026-16-12 — Stabilizer - Horizontal Stabilizer Spar - Inspection/Replacement

Summary

Airworthiness Directive 2026-16-12 is a final rule issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) addressing Air Tractor, Inc. Model AT-802 and AT-802A airplanes equipped with Wipaire, Inc. Supplemental Type Certificate No. SA01795CH. This directive mandates inspections and potential replacement of the horizontal stabilizer spars to prevent structural failure. It also incorporates new inspection areas related to the vertical fin structural support brace attachment.

What Changed

This directive supersedes AD 2024-16-06 and retains its inspection and replacement requirements while adding inspections for cracks near the vertical fin structural support brace mounts on the horizontal stabilizer spars. It shortens inspection intervals to no more than 110 hours time-in-service and requires inspection results to be reported to the FAA. Some inspection and life limit requirements from referenced Wipaire service letters are excluded pending further FAA evaluation.

Why It Matters

The directive addresses a critical safety issue involving cracks in horizontal stabilizer spars that could lead to structural failure and loss of airplane control. Operators of affected Air Tractor airplanes, especially those used in high-utilization roles like firefighting, must comply promptly to ensure continued airworthiness. Maintenance and compliance teams need to adjust inspection schedules and reporting procedures accordingly to meet the FAA's updated safety standards.

What To Do

Operators must perform initial inspections within 7 days or before accumulating 110 hours time-in-service after installation of the Wipaire STC, whichever is later, and continue repetitive inspections at intervals not exceeding 110 hours time-in-service. Any cracked or damaged horizontal stabilizer spars must be replaced, bathtub fittings installed, and inspection results reported to the FAA. Compliance with this directive is mandatory by August 31, 2026.