Airworthiness Directives: Diamond Aircraft Industries GmbH Airplanes

What it does

• •Proposes requiring inspections of Diamond Aircraft DA 50 C airplanes for displacement of the black slide grommet and loose rod end bearings on the flap actuator.
• •Requires modification of the flap actuator followed by repetitive inspections for broken actuator torque seals with corrective action as needed.
• •Prohibits installation of unmodified flap actuators on any airplane.

Why it matters

• •Flap actuator failures have been reported that could interfere with the aileron control system, potentially causing inability to extend flaps and reduced airplane control.
• •The FAA determined that this unsafe condition is likely to exist or develop on other DA 50 C airplanes of the same type design, necessitating preventive action.

Who is affected

• •Operators and owners of Diamond Aircraft Industries GmbH Model DA 50 C airplanes (estimated 30 airplanes of U.S. registry).
• •Maintenance personnel performing the required inspections, modifications, and repetitive inspections.

What happens next

The FAA must receive public comments on this proposed airworthiness directive by December 28, 2026, after which it may amend the proposal or issue a final rule.