Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Model A350-941 Airplanes

The FAA is proposing a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus SAS Model A350-941 airplanes due to a manufacturing defect where improper retorque of fasteners at the center wing box (CWB) and belly fairing (BF) junctions caused insufficient clamping. This issue, identified in early production aircraft with EN6115 code B fasteners, could compromise structural integrity and electromagnetic hazard compliance. In the event of a fuel leak, it might create an ignition source leading to an uncontrolled fire. The proposed AD requires replacing affected fasteners on both left-hand and right-hand sides and applying additional head nut cap protection, as specified in EASA AD 2025-0209 dated September 24, 2025. Operators must comply within times outlined in the EASA AD, incorporating it by reference with minor exceptions like using the FAA AD effective date. It affects an estimated 2 U.S.-registered airplanes, with compliance costs up to $6,720 per airplane (68 work-hours at $85/hour plus $940 parts), totaling up to $13,440 for U.S. operators. Comments are due by May 18, 2026, via regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2026-3475. This NPRM amends 14 CFR Part 39 and provides for alternative methods of compliance (AMOCs) through FAA's AIR-520 branch. It aligns with FAA's bilateral agreement with EASA, addressing an unsafe condition likely present in similar type-design products.

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