Rule2026-01004
Airworthiness Directives; Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation Airplanes
Primary source
Metadata and text below are from the Federal Register, a public-domain U.S. government work. Always verify the official published version before relying on it for any legal matter.
Published
January 20, 2026
Effective
February 24, 2026
Issuing agencies
Transportation DepartmentFederal Aviation Administration
Abstract
The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation Model GVI airplanes. This AD was prompted by a determination that new and more restrictive airworthiness limitations are necessary. This AD requires revising the existing maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate new and more restrictive airworthiness limitations. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Full Text
<html>
<head>
<title>Federal Register, Volume 91 Issue 12 (Tuesday, January 20, 2026)</title>
</head>
<body><pre>
[Federal Register Volume 91, Number 12 (Tuesday, January 20, 2026)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 2293-2295]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [<a href="http://www.gpo.gov">www.gpo.gov</a>]
[FR Doc No: 2026-01004]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2025-0757; Project Identifier AD-2025-00117-T;
Amendment 39-23230; AD 2026-01-02]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation
Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation Model GVI airplanes. This AD was
prompted by a determination that new and more restrictive airworthiness
limitations are necessary. This AD requires revising the existing
maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate new
and more restrictive airworthiness limitations. The FAA is issuing this
AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective February 24, 2026.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of February 24,
2026.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at <a href="http://regulations.gov">regulations.gov</a> under
Docket No. FAA-2025-0757; or in person at Docket Operations between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD
docket contains this final rule, any comments received, and other
information. The address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor,
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
<bullet> For Gulfstream material identified in this AD, contact
Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, Technical Publications Dept., P.O.
Box 2206, Savannah, GA 31402-2206; telephone 800-810-4853; email
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#b6c6c3d4c5f6d1c3dad0c5c2c4d3d7db98d5d9db"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="bcccc9decffcdbc9d0dacfc8ced9ddd192dfd3d1">[email protected]</span></a>; website <a href="http://gulfstream.com/en/customer-support">gulfstream.com/en/customer-support</a>.
<bullet> You may view this material at the FAA, Airworthiness
Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des
Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the
FAA, call 206-231-3195. It is also available at <a href="http://regulations.gov">regulations.gov</a> under
Docket No. FAA-2025-0757.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jeffrey Johnson, Aviation Safety
Engineer, FAA, 1701 Columbia Avenue, College Park, GA 30337; phone:
404-474-5554; email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#ef8a8c8dc28c809caf898e8ec1888099"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="bbded8d996d8d4c8fbdddada95dcd4cd">[email protected]</span></a>.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all Gulfstream
Aerospace Corporation Model GVI airplanes. The NPRM was published in
the Federal Register on May 19, 2025 (90 FR 21245). The NPRM was
prompted by a determination that new and more restrictive airworthiness
limitations are necessary. In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to revise the
existing maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to
incorporate new and more restrictive airworthiness limitations. The FAA
is issuing this AD to prevent failure of principal structural elements
throughout the service life of each part. This condition, if not
addressed, could compromise the structural integrity of the airplane.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive
Comments
The FAA received a comment from an individual commentor who
supported the NPRM without change.
The FAA received additional comments from Gulfstream Aerospace
Corporation. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM
and the FAA's response to each comment.
Request To Allow Use Later Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM) Revisions
Gulfstream requested that the FAA revise paragraph (g) of the
proposed AD to allow incorporation of Section 05-10-10 of Gulfstream
G650 Aircraft Maintenance Manual, Revision 25, dated May 15, 2025; and
Gulfstream G650ER Aircraft Maintenance Manual, Revision 20, dated May
15, 2025. Gulfstream stated the proposed AD would require incorporating
earlier AMM revisions, without accommodating these later AMM revisions.
Gulfstream noted that the airworthiness limitations in Section 05-10-10
of the later AMM revisions are unchanged from the earlier revisions and
still dated October 30, 2024. Gulfstream expressed concern that
operators who have incorporated later AMM revisions would not be able
to demonstrate compliance with the proposed AD unless they obtained an
alternative method of compliance (AMOC). Gulfstream also stated that
the proposed AD would require incorporating the entire AMM, whereas
only the airworthiness limitations in Section 05-10-10 are necessary to
address the unsafe condition.
The FAA agrees to revise paragraph (g) of this AD to clarify that
using a later revision of Section 05-10-10 of the applicable AMM is
acceptable for compliance with the requirements of paragraph (g) of
this AD, provided that the information in the later revision is
identical to that contained in Section 05-10-10, ``Airworthiness
Limitations,'' Chapter 05, ``Time Limits/Maintenance Checks,''
Gulfstream G650 Aircraft Maintenance Manual, Revision 24, dated October
30, 2024; and Section 05-10-10, ``Airworthiness Limitations,'' Chapter
05, ``Time Limits/Maintenance Checks,'' Gulfstream G650ER Aircraft
Maintenance Manual, Revision 19, dated October 30, 2024; as applicable.
As long as the information in the later revision of the applicable AMM
is identical, an operator can show compliance with those airworthiness
limitations without having to obtain an AMOC.
The FAA disagrees with Gulfstream's interpretation that this AD
mandates the entire AMM. The FAA notes that paragraph (g) of this AD
requires incorporating the information in Section 05-10-10,
``Airworthiness Limitations,'' Chapter 05, ``Time Limits/Maintenance
Checks,'' Gulfstream G650 Aircraft Maintenance Manual, Revision 24,
dated October 30, 2024; and Section 05-10-10, ``Airworthiness
Limitations,'' Chapter 05, ``Time Limits/Maintenance Checks,''
Gulfstream G650ER Aircraft Maintenance Manual, Revision 19, dated
October 30, 2024; as applicable. Therefore, the FAA has not changed
this AD in regard to this comment.
Request To Revise Background Paragraph
Gulfstream requested that the FAA revise the Background section of
the proposed AD to specify Gulfstream revised the airworthiness
limitations section (ALS) of the Gulfstream G650 and G650ER AMMs to add
airplane serial numbers to the effectivity of the rear spar fitting
principal structural element (PSE) and clarify safe life limit part
numbers where ``& Sub'' was previously noted. Gulfstream stated that
the Background description regarding
[[Page 2294]]
errors in the previous revisions of the ALS is incorrect.
The FAA disagrees with the request. The term ``error'' is an
accurate description of the need to revise the ALS of the AMMs. The FAA
considers differences between the FAA-approved engineering data and the
technical publications to be errors. The effectivity and the safe life
limit part numbers were revised because the ALS of the AMMs did not
match the FAA-approved engineering data. The FAA has not revised the AD
in this regard.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data, considered any comments
received, and determined that air safety requires adopting this AD as
proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products. Except for minor editorial changes, and
any other changes described previously, this AD is adopted as proposed
in the NPRM. None of the changes will increase the economic burden on
any operator.
Material Incorporated by Reference Under 1 CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed Section 05-10-10, ``Airworthiness Limitations,''
Chapter 05, ``Time Limits/Maintenance Checks,'' Gulfstream G650
Aircraft Maintenance Manual, Revision 24, dated October 30, 2024; and
Section 05-10-10, ``Airworthiness Limitations,'' Chapter 05, ``Time
Limits/Maintenance Checks,'' Gulfstream G650ER Aircraft Maintenance
Manual, Revision 19, dated October 30, 2024. This material specifies
airworthiness limitations, which includes additional safe life limit
part numbers and the addition of airplane serial numbers to the
effectivity of certain PSEs. These documents are distinct because they
apply to different airplane models.
This material is reasonably available because the interested
parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by
the means identified in the ADDRESSES section.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD would affect 428 airplanes of U.S.
registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:
The FAA has determined that revising the existing maintenance or
inspection program takes an average of 90 work-hours per operator,
although the agency recognizes that this number may vary from operator
to operator. Since operators incorporate maintenance or inspection
program changes for their affected fleet(s), the FAA has determined
that a per-operator estimate is more accurate than a per-airplane
estimate. Therefore, the FAA estimates the average total cost per
operator to be $7,650 (90 work-hours x $85 per work-hour).
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States,
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
The Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive:
2026-01-02 Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation: Amendment 39-23230;
Docket No. FAA-2025-0757; Project Identifier AD-2025-00117-T.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective February 24,
2026.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation Model
GVI airplanes, certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 57, Wings.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a determination that new and more
restrictive airworthiness limitations are necessary. The FAA is
issuing this AD to prevent failure of principal structural elements
throughout the service life of each part. This condition, if not
addressed, could compromise the structural integrity of the
airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Maintenance or Inspection Program Revision
Within 30 days after the effective date of this AD, revise the
existing maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to
incorporate the information specified in Section 05-10-10,
``Airworthiness Limitations,'' Chapter 05, ``Time Limits/Maintenance
Checks,'' Gulfstream G650 Aircraft Maintenance Manual, Revision 24,
dated October 30, 2024; and Section 05-10-10, ``Airworthiness
Limitations,'' Chapter 05, ``Time Limits/Maintenance Checks,''
Gulfstream G650ER Aircraft Maintenance Manual, Revision 19, dated
October 30, 2024; as applicable. The initial compliance time for
doing the tasks is at the time specified in Section 05-10-10,
``Airworthiness Limitations,'' Chapter 05, ``Time Limits/Maintenance
Checks,'' Gulfstream G650 Aircraft Maintenance Manual, Revision 24,
dated October 30, 2024; and Section 05-10-10, ``Airworthiness
Limitations,'' Chapter 05, ``Time Limits/Maintenance Checks,''
Gulfstream G650ER Aircraft Maintenance Manual, Revision 19, dated
October 30, 2024; as applicable, or within 30 days after the
effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later. Using a later
revision of Section 05-10-10 of the applicable AMM with information
identical to that contained in Section 05-10-10, ``Airworthiness
Limitations,'' Chapter 05, ``Time Limits/Maintenance Checks,''
Gulfstream G650 Aircraft Maintenance
[[Page 2295]]
Manual, Revision 24, dated October 30, 2024; and Section 05-10-10,
``Airworthiness Limitations,'' Chapter 05, ``Time Limits/Maintenance
Checks,'' Gulfstream G650ER Aircraft Maintenance Manual, Revision
19, dated October 30, 2024; as applicable, is acceptable for
compliance with the requirements of this paragraph.
(h) No Alternative Actions or Intervals
After the existing maintenance or inspection program has been
revised as required by paragraph (g) of this AD, no alternative
actions (e.g., inspections) or intervals may be used unless the
actions and intervals are approved as an alternative method of
compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the procedures specified in
paragraph (j) of this AD.
(i) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits, as described in 14 CFR 39.23, are not
allowed.
(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
The Manager, East Certification Branch, FAA, has the authority
to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures
found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your
request to your principal inspector or responsible Flight Standards
Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the
manager of the East Certification Branch, send it to the attention
of the person identified in paragraph (k) of this AD. Information
may be emailed to: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#6b2a2624282b0d0a0a450c041d"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="2f6e62606c6f494e4e01484059">[email protected]</span></a>. Before using any approved AMOC,
notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal
inspector, the manager of the responsible Flight Standards Office.
(k) Additional Information
For more information about this AD, contact Jeffrey Johnson,
Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1701 Columbia Avenue, College Park,
GA 30337; phone: 404-474-5554; email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#cfaaacade2aca0bc8fa9aeaee1a8a0b9"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="c0a5a3a2eda3afb380a6a1a1eea7afb6">[email protected]</span></a>.
(l) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of the material listed in this paragraph
under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this material as applicable to do the actions
required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Section 05-10-10, ``Airworthiness Limitations,'' Chapter 05,
``Time Limits/Maintenance Checks,'' Gulfstream G650 Aircraft
Maintenance Manual, Revision 24, dated October 30, 2024.
(ii) Section 05-10-10, ``Airworthiness Limitations,'' Chapter
05, ``Time Limits/Maintenance Checks,'' Gulfstream G650ER Aircraft
Maintenance Manual, Revision 19, dated October 30, 2024.
(3) For Gulfstream material identified in this AD, contact
Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, Technical Publications Dept., P.O.
Box 2206, Savannah, GA 31402-2206; telephone 800-810-4853; email
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#7d0d081f0e3d1a08111b0e090f181c10531e1210"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="8ffffaedfccfe8fae3e9fcfbfdeaeee2a1ece0e2">[email protected]</span></a>; website <a href="http://gulfstream.com/en/customer-support">gulfstream.com/en/customer-support</a>.
(4) You may view this material at the FAA, Airworthiness
Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th St.,
Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material
at the FAA, call 206-231-3195.
(5) You may view this material at the National Archives and
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability
of this material at NARA, visit <a href="http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations">www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations</a> or email <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#5c3a2e7235322f2c393f283533321c323d2e3d723b332a"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="98feeab6f1f6ebe8fdfbecf1f7f6d8f6f9eaf9b6fff7ee">[email protected]</span></a>.
Issued on January 14, 2026.
Christopher R. Parker,
Acting Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2026-01004 Filed 1-16-26; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
</pre><script data-cfasync="false" src="/cdn-cgi/scripts/5c5dd728/cloudflare-static/email-decode.min.js"></script></body>
</html>Indexed from Federal Register on January 20, 2026.
This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.