The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a new airworthiness directive (AD) requiring the replacement of rudders on approximately 31,000 Piper aircraft. This mandate, effective March 20, 2025, comes in response to safety concerns over 1025 carbon steel rudder posts, which have been linked to in-flight failures due to fatigue and corrosion.

Affected Aircraft Models: The AD covers multiple Piper aircraft, including:

  • J-series Cubs
  • PA-12
  • PA-14
  • PA-16
  • PA-18
  • PA-20
  • PA-22 Tri-Pacer

Compliance Deadlines: The FAA has categorized aircraft based on specific features, with varying compliance timelines:

  • Category I: Aircraft with both a rudder post-mounted beacon light and a 150+ horsepower engine must comply within 2 years.
  • Category II: Aircraft with either a rudder post-mounted beacon light or a 150+ horsepower engine must comply within 3 years.
  • Category III: Aircraft with engines between 100-150 horsepower and no beacon light must comply within 5 years.
  • Category IV: Aircraft with engines below 100 horsepower and no beacon light must comply within 10 years.

Background: The mandate follows investigations into two incidents in Alaska where Piper aircraft suffered rudder post fractures, causing structural failures. Both involved aircraft with 1025 carbon steel rudder posts and occurred in 2020 and 2021.

Industry Response: While aviation organizations, like the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), have voiced concerns about the broad scope and potential costs, the FAA has decided to uphold the original requirements.

Next Steps for Aircraft Owners: Owners of affected Piper aircraft should:

  1. Check Rudder Post Material: Confirm if the rudder post is made of 1025 carbon steel.
  2. Schedule Replacement: Arrange for rudder replacement or find an approved alternative method of compliance (AMOC) within the prescribed timeframe.
  3. Consult with Maintenance Experts: Work with certified mechanics to ensure the AD is followed.

Read the full directive at https://drs.faa.gov/browse/excelExternalWindow/FR-ADFRAWD-2025-02528-0000000000.0001