Federal Register #FAA-2026-3475

FAA Proposes Airworthiness Directives for Airbus A350 Fastener and Actuator Replacement

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), under the Department of Transportation, is proposing new airworthiness directives (ADs) for certain Airbus SAS Model A350-941 and A350-1041 airplanes to address critical safety concerns. - Government Buyer: - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Aircraft Certification Service, Airworthiness Products Section - OEMs and Vendors: - Airbus SAS (primary OEM) - Products/Services Requested: - Replacement of affected fasteners (part number EN6115 code B) at center wing box (CWB) and belly fairing (BF) junctions - Application of additional head nut cap protection as specified in Airbus Service Bulletin A35057P093 and EASA AD 20250209 - Replacement of primary flight control actuators exposed to mechanical overloads (no specific part number provided) - Prohibition on installation of affected actuators - Unique or Notable Requirements: - Compliance with European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 20250209 and Airbus Service Bulletin A35057P093 - Addresses unsafe conditions that could compromise structural integrity and electromagnetic hazard compliance, potentially leading to ignition sources and uncontrolled fires in the event of a fuel leak - Affects two U.S.-registered airplanes - Estimated compliance cost up to $13,440 for the affected aircraft - Key Locations: - FAA Airworthiness Products Section, Des Moines, WA - U.S. Department of Transportation Docket Operations, Washington, DC

Description

The FAA proposes a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus SAS Model A350-941 airplanes due to a manufacturing investigation revealing improper application of the fastener retorque process at the center wing box and belly fairing junctions, which could lead to insufficient clamping. The proposed AD requires replacing affected parts and applying additional head nut cap protection to address the unsafe condition. Comments on the proposal are invited until May 18, 2026. This action aims to ensure structural integrity and compliance with safety standards to prevent potential ignition sources and uncontrolled fires.

View original listing