The Federal Aviation Administration has issued a new airworthiness directive for Mitsubishi Heavy Industries RJ Aviation (MHI RJ) CRJ-series jets following reports of loose or missing bolts on the horizontal stabilizer’s anti-yaw steady fitting block.
Effective November 20, 2025, the rule applies to CRJ550, CRJ700, CRJ705, CRJ900, and CRJ1000 models. The FAA warns that unsecured hardware, combined with a bird strike or strong gusts, could result in the loss of the horizontal stabilizer and control of the aircraft.
Operators must perform repetitive torque checks on four attachment bolts and replace any loose or missing parts. An optional modification adds locking features to permanently resolve the issue. About 597 U.S.-registered jets are affected, with each inspection expected to take up to six labor hours. Airlines can incorporate the checks into routine maintenance, avoiding widespread disruptions.
The FAA’s action mirrors a Transport Canada directive issued in August. The agency is accepting public comments while the rule remains in effect and may later require full hardware replacement. Regional carriers operating CRJ700 and CRJ900 fleets are expected to begin inspections soon.