Federal Register #FAA-2026-8810

FAA Airworthiness Directive for De Havilland DHC-8-401/402 Aircraft – Fuel Leak Inspection and Maintenance

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is proposing a new airworthiness directive for De Havilland DHC-8-401 and DHC-8-402 aircraft to address a potential fuel leak risk. - Government Buyer: - Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) - OEMs and Vendors: - De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (Type Certificate Previously Held by Bombardier, Inc.) - Products/Services Requested: - Detailed visual inspection of bracket assembly (part number 85714524001) for signs of fuel leakage and proper sealing - Application of sealant to bracket assembly and fasteners if required - Compliance with Transport Canada AD CF202569 and FAA-specific exceptions - Estimated 35 affected airplanes in U.S. registry - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Focus on inspection and corrective maintenance, not procurement of new parts - FAA-specific exceptions to compliance times and terminology - Addresses omission of sealing instructions that could allow fuel to leak from wing fuel tank into wing dry bay - No replacement parts or products are being procured; directive is for maintenance actions only

Description

The FAA proposes a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited Model DHC-8-401 and DHC-8-402 airplanes. This AD addresses a report that instructions for sealing a bracket on the inboard surface of the tank rib were omitted, potentially allowing fuel to leak from the wing fuel tank into the wing dry bay. The proposed AD requires a detailed visual inspection for fuel leakage and the presence of seals, along with applicable on-condition actions to prevent fuel vapor exposure and risk of explosion. Comments on the proposal are due by November 2, 2026.

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