The FAA is replacing an earlier fuel-tank pump inspection directive for certain Boeing 747-400 and 747-8 aircraft. AD 2026-22-04, in the Federal Register document dated November 2, takes effect on December 7, 2026 and supersedes AD 2023-07-09.
What the new directive addresses
The rule calls for repeated inspections of horizontal-stabilizer fuel-tank transfer-pump inlet check valves and impeller inlet adapters, with corrective action where required. The FAA describes wear caused by contact between components as a potential ignition source. In combination with flammable fuel vapour, the agency says the unsafe condition could lead to a tank explosion.
Applicability and timing matter
The directive identifies covered aircraft through Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 747-28A2373 RB, dated November 6, 2025. December 7 is the rule’s effective date; individual inspection timing follows the referenced bulletin and the exceptions in the AD. Operators need those documents to determine the work applicable to a particular aircraft.
The rule also places conditions on installing specified transfer-pump parts. Its regulatory text provides the controlling applicability, compliance and approval provisions.
How the rule developed
The FAA proposed the replacement on July 9, 2026 and issued the final directive on October 26. The agency says the manufacturer developed further action to address the condition covered by the 2023 directive.
Archive illustration: Lufthansa Boeing 747-8 at São Paulo-Guarulhos, January 13, 2020. This report does not identify the pictured aircraft as subject to the directive.
