PA-31T/​42Cheyenne

piperEffective Sep 29, 2026Timetable 1995–2025

What mechanics have reported to the FAA on the Piper PA-31T and PA-42 Cheyenne, the airworthiness directives in force, and the NTSB accident record, on one sheet. PA-31T Cheyenne I, IA, II and IIXL, and PA-42 Cheyenne III, IIIA and 400.

What gets written up1995–2025
32Landing Gear Retract/​Extend System357.7%021Heating System173.8%152Passenger/​Crew Doors153.3%052Landing Gear Doors102.2%027Rudder Control System102.2%029Hydraulic System, Main102.2%0

Top six of ten systems. Counts reflect who reports, not how reliable the airplane is.

Registered
234 in the U.S., FAA registry Sep 29, 2026
Reports on file
452 since 1995
2016–2025
12, about 5.1 a year per 1,000 registered
ADs in force
44 (13 airframe, 31 engine)
Accidents
51 since 1995, 22 fatal

Airworthiness directives

44 in force · 4 superseded not shown

From Federal Register final rules since 1995. Whether an AD applies to a particular airplane depends on its serial number, engine and installed equipment; confirm against the FAA’s Dynamic Regulatory System.

For the airframe13 in force
AD2017-02-06Effective Feb 22, 2017Piper Aircraft, Inc. AirplanesRepetitive

Wiring below the main circuit breaker panel may have thermal damage and inadequate clearance, which contributed to a fatal accident. Repetitive detailed visual inspections of wiring are required to check for proper clearance and damage, with rerouting or replacement as necessary.

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2012-10-09Effective Jun 29, 2012Piper Aircraft, Inc. AirplanesOne-time

Some owners incorrectly modified aircraft data plates due to confusion about serial number applicability, causing improper model identification. This AD requires determining the correct airplane model based on serial number, correcting the data plate, and searching for and addressing any applicable airworthiness documents that may have been missed due to the incorrect marking.

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2009-13-06Effective Nov 3, 2011Piper Aircraft, Inc. AirplanesRepetitive

Certain Piper aircraft with nose baggage doors may have safety-critical baggage door components with inadequate life limits and latching mechanisms that may not operate reliably. This AD requires establishing life limits for nose baggage door components, replacing components at specified intervals, and performing repetitive inspections and lubrication of the nose baggage door latching mechanism and lock assembly.

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2003-24-07Effective Feb 9, 2004The New Piper Aircraft, Inc. Models PA-31, PA-31-300, PA-31-325, PA-31-350, PA-31P, PA-31T, PA-31T1, PA-31T2, PA-31T3, and PA-31P-350 AirplanesOne-time

Rudder torque tube corrosion has been reported on certain Piper twin-engine aircraft, which could lead to loss of rudder control. This AD requires installation of an inspection hole, detailed visual inspection of the rudder torque tube and ribs for corrosion, and replacement or repair of affected components if corrosion is found.

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2001-06-01Effective May 8, 2001The New Piper Aircraft, Inc. Models PA-31, PA-31-300, PA-31-325, PA-31-350, PA-31P, PA-31T, PA-31T1, PA-31T2, PA-31T3, and PA-31P-350 AirplanesRepetitive

Damage to the elevator structure on certain Piper PA-31 series airplanes could reduce or cause loss of control. This AD requires inspection and modification of the elevator structure, with a later modification serving as terminating action for repetitive inspections.

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2000-25-01Effective Jan 19, 2001The New Piper Aircraft, Inc. (formerly Piper Aircraft Corporation) PA-31 Series AirplanesRepetitive

Cracks have been found in main landing gear inboard door hinge assemblies on certain PA-31 series airplanes, which could result in the landing gear becoming jammed and loss of control during landing. This AD requires repetitive inspections of the MLG inboard door hinges and attachment angles for cracks, and replacement of any cracked parts with improved design assemblies.

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2000-14-08Effective Aug 21, 2000The New Piper Aircraft, Inc. PA-42 Series AirplanesOne-time

In-flight incidents and accidents have occurred when airframe pneumatic deicing boots were not activated in icing conditions. This AD requires revising the Airplane Flight Manual to include requirements for activating the pneumatic wing and tail deicing boots at the first signs of ice accumulation.

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2000-06-06Effective Mar 23, 2000The New Piper Aircraft, Inc. PA-31 Series AirplanesOne-time

Pneumatic deicing boots on PA-31 series airplanes may not be activated by flightcrews during icing conditions, leading to reduced controllability from ice accumulation. The AD requires revising the Airplane Flight Manual to include requirements for activating the airframe pneumatic deicing boots at the first signs of ice accumulation.

Read the AD in the Federal Register
Show 5 older
AD98-25-02Effective Dec 22, 1998BFGoodrich Avionics Systems, Inc. SKYWATCH SKY497 Installations with a Top-Mounted AntennaRepetitive

BFGoodrich SKYWATCH SKY497 installations with top-mounted antennas can experience internal component failure that changes the antenna configuration, causing target indicators to display on the wrong side of the aircraft. This AD requires verifying correct antenna configuration at power-up and removing from service any installations with incorrect antenna configuration.

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD98-04-27Effective Mar 13, 1998The New Piper Aircraft Corporation Models PA-23, PA-23-160, PA-23-235, PA-23-250, PA-E23-250, PA-30, PA- 39, PA-40, PA-31, PA-31-300, PA-31-325, PA-31-350, PA-34-200, PA-34- 200T, PA-34-220T, PA-42, PA-42-720, PA-42-1000 AirplanesOne-time

These Piper aircraft may be unsafe when operated in severe icing conditions due to inadequate procedures and limitations for such conditions. The AD requires revising the airplane flight manual to prohibit flight in severe icing, limit flight control device use in icing, and provide procedures for recognizing and exiting severe icing.

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD97-26-12Effective Dec 18, 1997The New Piper Aircraft, Inc. Models PA- 31T, PA-31T1, PA-31T2, PA-31T3, PA-42, PA-42-720, and PA-42-1000 AirplanesOne-time

Improper use of propeller beta during flight has caused loss of control and engine overspeed in turboprop-equipped airplanes. The AD requires amending the flight manual to prohibit positioning power levers below flight idle stop during flight and warn of consequences.

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD97-16-10Effective Sep 18, 1997RAPCO, Inc. Filter, Part Numbers RA- 1J4-4, RA-1J4-6, and RA-1J4-7 From Lot Numbers 05597, 07797, and 12597One-time

RAPCO in-line pressure filters from certain lot numbers have cracked housings that can fail in flight, causing loss of flight instruments and airplane control. This AD requires removing all affected filters from aircraft.

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD96-10-14Effective Jun 27, 1996The New Piper Aircraft, Inc. (Formerly Piper Aircraft Corporation) PA31, PA31P, and PA31T Series AirplanesRepetitive

Cracks in main landing gear forward sidebraces can cause landing gear collapse and loss of control during landing. Owners must install improved design MLG forward sidebraces to terminate the repetitive inspection requirement.

Read the AD in the Federal Register
For engines in the fleet31 in force
AD2024-04-51Effective Mar 28, 2024Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp. EnginesEmergency AD

Second-stage power turbine blade failures have been reported on these engines. Remove affected PT2 blades prior to the next flight and prohibit installation of affected PT2 blades.

Engine models named PT6A-64, PT6A-66, PT6A-66A, PT6A-66B, PT6A-66D, PT6A-67, PT6A-67A, PT6A-67AF, PT6A-67AG, PT6A-67B, PT6A-67D, PT6A-67F

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2022-08-13Effective May 27, 2022Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp. Turboprop EnginesRepetitive

Low-time fractures of compressor turbine blades have caused loss of engine power and in-flight shutdowns on certain P&WC turboprop engines. The AD requires replacement of certain compressor turbine vanes and removal from service of certain compressor turbine blades that operated with specific vane configurations.

Engine models named PT6A-114, PT6A-114A, PT6A-34, PT6A-34AG, PT6A-34B

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2018-22-01Effective Dec 10, 2018Honeywell International Inc. Turboprop EnginesOne-time

Certain Honeywell TPE331 turboprop engines experienced uncontained rotor separation and cracks in the second stage turbine rotor assembly bore. This AD reduces the life limit for affected second stage turbine rotors and requires their removal from service.

Engine models named TPE331-10, TPE331-10N, TPE331-10R, TPE331-10U, TPE331-10UA, TPE331-10UF, TPE331-10UG, TPE331-10UGR, TPE331-10UR, TPE331-11U, TPE331-8

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2018-17-15Effective Oct 22, 2018Honeywell International Inc. Turboprop and Turboshaft EnginesRepetitive

Certain Honeywell turboprop and turboshaft engines may have cracked combustion chamber case assemblies that could fail. Operators must inspect affected engines, replace cracked assemblies, and remove affected assemblies or perform approved weld repairs.

Engine models named TPE331-1, TPE331-10, TPE331-10AV, TPE331-10GP, TPE331-10GT, TPE331-10N, TPE331-10P, TPE331-10R, TPE331-10T, TPE331-10U, TPE331-10UA, TPE331-10UF

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2018-13-05Effective Jul 26, 2018Honeywell International Inc. Turboprop and Turboshaft EnginesRepetitive

Failures have occurred in the direct drive fuel control gears and bearings of hydraulic torque sensor gear assemblies in certain Honeywell turboprop and turboshaft engines. This AD requires initial and repetitive engine oil filter sampling and analysis, and inspections of certain hydraulic torque sensor gear assemblies.

Engine models named TPE331-1, TPE331-10, TPE331-10AV, TPE331-10N, TPE331-10P, TPE331-10R, TPE331-10T, TPE331-10U, TPE331-10UA, TPE331-10UF, TPE331-10UR, TPE331-2

Read the AD in the Federal Register
Show 26 older
AD2016-21-07Effective Nov 28, 2016Honeywell International Inc. Turboprop EnginesRepetitive

Failure of the fuel control drive can damage the engine and airplane. The AD requires dimensional inspections of the affected fuel control drives at 100-hour intervals and insertion of certain airplane operating procedures into flight manuals.

Engine models named TPE331-1, TPE331-10, TPE331-10AV, TPE331-10GP, TPE331-10GT, TPE331-10P, TPE331-10R, TPE331-10T, TPE331-10U, TPE331-10UA, TPE331-10UF, TPE331-10UG

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2016-18-17Effective Nov 4, 2016Honeywell International Inc. Turboprop and Turboshaft EnginesOne-time

Cracks have been found in 2nd stage compressor impellers in certain Honeywell turboprop and turboshaft engines, which could lead to impeller failure and uncontained part release. This AD requires removal of the affected 2nd stage compressor impeller.

Engine models named TPE331-10, TPE331-10AV, TPE331-10GP, TPE331-10GT, TPE331-10N, TPE331-10P, TPE331-10R, TPE331-10T, TPE331-10U, TPE331-10UA, TPE331-10UF, TPE331-10UG

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2016-05-13Effective Apr 22, 2016Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp. Turboprop EnginesOne-time

Certain Pratt & Whitney Canada turboprop engines have Woodward fuel control units with two-ply Cu-Be bellows that can corrode and perforate, potentially causing engine failure and in-flight shutdown. This AD requires removing affected Woodward FCUs and installing eligible replacement units.

Engine models named PT6A-60AG, PT6A-65AG, PT6A-67AF, PT6A-67AG

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2015-18-03Effective Nov 13, 2015Honeywell International Inc. Turboprop Engines (Type Certificate Previously Held by AlliedSignal Inc., Garrett Engine Division; Garrett Turbine Engine Company; and AiResearch Manufacturing Company of Arizona)One-time

Certain engine propeller shaft couplings can fail, causing unexpected propeller pitch changes and increased asymmetric drag on the aircraft. This AD requires removing affected couplings from service and inserting applicable operating procedures into flight manuals.

Engine models named TPE331-10, TPE331-10R, TPE331-10U, TPE331-10UF, TPE331-10UG, TPE331-10UGR, TPE331-10UR, TPE331-5, TPE331-5A, TPE331-5AB, TPE331-5B

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2014-12-04Effective Jul 22, 2015Honeywell International Inc. Turboprop EnginesRepetitive

Loss of fuel control drive in certain Honeywell turboprop engines can cause engine overspeed, overtorque, overtemperature, uncontained rotor failure, and asymmetric thrust in multi-engine aircraft. Owners must perform initial and repetitive dimensional inspections of the fuel control drive and insert certain operating procedures into flight manuals.

Engine models named TPE331-1, TPE331-10, TPE331-10AV, TPE331-10GP, TPE331-10GT, TPE331-10P, TPE331-10R, TPE331-10T, TPE331-10U, TPE331-10UA, TPE331-10UF, TPE331-10UG

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2014-17-08Effective Jun 5, 2015Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp. Turboprop EnginesRepetitive

Compressor turbine blades in certain PT6A engines can fail, potentially damaging the engine and aircraft. The AD requires borescope inspections of compressor turbine blades and removal of any blades that fail inspection.

Engine models named PT6A-114, PT6A-114A

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2012-09-10Effective May 23, 2012Pratt & Whitney Canada Turboprop EnginesOne-time

Certain Timken Alcor Aerospace Technologies first stage sun gears and planet gears in the reduction gearbox can fail, causing in-flight engine shutdown and possible uncontained failure. Remove these affected parts from service.

Engine models named PT6A-110, PT6A-112, PT6A-114, PT6A-114A, PT6A-121, PT6A-135, PT6A-135A, PT6A-38, PT6A-41, PT6A-42, PT6A-42A, PT6A-61

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2012-02-06Effective Mar 15, 2012Honeywell International Inc. TPE331-10 and TPE331-11 Series Turboprop EnginesRepetitive

A first stage turbine disk with a metallurgical defect fractured in an uncontained manner, risking damage to the engine and aircraft. This AD requires inspection of affected turbine disks to prevent uncontained failure.

Engine models named TPE331-10, TPE331-10AV, TPE331-10GP, TPE331-10GT, TPE331-10N, TPE331-10P, TPE331-10R, TPE331-10T, TPE331-10U, TPE331-10UA, TPE331-10UF, TPE331-10UG

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2011-25-12Effective Dec 28, 2011Pratt & Whitney Canada Turboprop EnginesOne-time

Certain Timken Alcor Aerospace Technologies replacement sun gears and planetary gear sets in the propeller reduction gearbox may fail, causing engine in-flight shutdown and possible uncontained engine failure. This AD requires removal of affected TAATI PMA replacement first stage reduction sun gears and/or interacting planetary gear sets.

Engine models named PT6A-15AG, PT6A-27, PT6A-28, PT6A-34, PT6A-34AG, PT6A-34B, PT6A-36

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2011-20-51Effective Nov 1, 2011Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-15AG, -27, -28, -34, -34AG, -34B, and -36 Series Turboprop EnginesEmergency AD

Certain PMA replacement first stage reduction sun gears from Timken Alcor Aerospace Technologies have failed in service. This AD requires removal of affected TAATI first stage reduction sun gears and interacting planet gears from the propeller reduction gearbox assembly.

Engine models named PT6A-15AG, PT6A-27, PT6A-28, PT6A-34, PT6A-34AG, PT6A-34B, PT6A-36

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2011-18-51Effective Oct 19, 2011Honeywell International Inc. TPE331 Model Turboprop Engines With Certain Dixie Aerospace, LLC Main Shaft BearingsEmergency AD

Certain Dixie Aerospace LLC main shaft bearings installed in Honeywell TPE331 turboprop engines are unsafe. This AD requires inspection of airplane records to confirm if the affected bearing is installed and removal from service before further flight.

Engine models named TPE331

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2009-17-05Effective Sep 1, 2009Honeywell International Inc. TPE331-10 and TPE331-11 Series Turboprop EnginesOne-time

Certain first stage turbine disks in TPE331-10 and TPE331-11 series engines have metallurgical defects that can cause uncontained failure. This AD requires removing affected first stage turbine disks from service.

Engine models named TPE331-10 series, TPE331-11 series

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2006-14-03Effective Aug 9, 2006Honeywell International Inc. TPE331 Series Turboprop, and TSE331-3U Model Turboshaft EnginesRepetitive

Certain Honeywell turboprop and turboshaft engines have experienced uncontained turbine rotor separation due to low-cycle fatigue, particularly in special-use operations with multiple takeoffs and landings without shutdown. This AD requires implementing a new flight cycle counting method for first, second, and third-stage turbine rotors and removing rotors from service when they reach their cycle life limits.

Engine models named TPE331 series

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2004-25-18Effective Jan 18, 2005Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-60A and PT6A-65B Turboprop EnginesOne-time

Woodward propeller governor assemblies on certain PT6A-60A and PT6A-65B engines can cause difficult directional control during landing. This AD requires replacing the affected governor assemblies.

Engine models named PT6A-60A, PT6A-65B

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2004-09-29Effective Jun 15, 2004Honeywell International Inc. (Formerly AlliedSignal Inc., Garrett Turbine Engine Company, and AiResearch Manufacturing Company of Arizona) TPE331-10 and -11 Series Turboprop EnginesRepetitive

First stage turbine disks in TPE331-10 and -11 series engines may develop cracks from melt-related defects that could cause uncontained disk separation and engine damage. This AD requires initial and repetitive fluorescent penetrant and eddy current inspections of affected disks.

Engine models named TPE331-10, TPE331-11

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2002-25-02Effective Jan 21, 2003Honeywell International Inc. TPE331-3, -5, -6, -8, -10, and -11 Series Turboprop and TSE331-3 Series Turboshaft EnginesOne-time

Weld-repaired first stage compressor impellers have failed in service, causing uncontained engine failures and in-flight shutdowns. This AD requires removing all weld-repaired first stage Ti 6-4 compressor impellers from service.

Engine models named TPE331-10, TPE331-11, TPE331-3, TPE331-5, TPE331-6, TPE331-8

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2002-23-13Effective Dec 31, 2002Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A Series Turboprop EnginesRepetitive

Cracks have been found along weld seams in certain turbine exhaust ducts on PT6A engines that were modified by various companies. This AD requires inspections for low-quality welds and cracks to prevent separation of the reduction gearbox and propeller from the engine.

Engine models named PT6A series

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2002-21-15Effective Nov 26, 2002Honeywell International Inc. TPE331 Series Turboprop and TSE331-3U Series Turboshaft EnginesOne-time

Second stage turbine stator assemblies may have obstructed cooling holes or passages that cause contact and rub into the turbine rotor, potentially resulting in uncontained turbine wheel separation. This AD requires replacement of affected second stage turbine stator assemblies with serviceable units.

Engine models named TPE331-1, TPE331-2, TPE331-2UA, TPE331-3U, TPE331-3UW, TPE331-5, TPE331-5A, TPE331-5AB, TPE331-5B, TPE331-6, TPE331-6A

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2002-12-09Effective Jul 3, 2002Honeywell International Inc. (Formerly AlliedSignal Inc. and Garrett Turbine Engine Company) TPE331-11U, -12B, -12JR, -12UA, -12UAR, and -12UHR Series Turboprop EnginesRepetitive

Bull gear rim separations and high-speed pinion assembly failures can occur due to abnormal gear wear, potentially causing uncontained gearbox fragmentation and engine failures. The AD requires repetitive oil analysis sampling, trend assessment, and inspection and replacement of certain gearbox components.

Engine models named TPE331-11U, TPE331-12B, TPE331-12JR, TPE331-12UA, TPE331-12UAR, TPE331-12UHR

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2001-21-02Effective Nov 19, 2001Honeywell International Inc. (formerly AlliedSignal Inc. and Garrett Turbine Engine Company) TPE331-8, -10N, and -12B Turboprop EnginesOne-time

Certain TPE331 turboprop engines with specific electronic engine controls can experience uncommanded full power increases, risking loss of airplane control due to asymmetric thrust. Operators must revise their Airplane Flight Manual Emergency and Normal Procedures sections until the affected engine controls are replaced.

Engine models named TPE331-10N, TPE331-12B, TPE331-8

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD2001-20-01Effective Nov 5, 2001Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-25C and -114A Series Turboprop EnginesRepetitive

Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-25C and -114A engines may experience wear in the compressor bleed valve assembly causing power loss or in-flight shutdown. The AD requires initial and repetitive visual inspections and eventual replacement of the compressor bleed valve assembly with a redesigned version.

Engine models named PT6A-114A, PT6A-25C

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD98-12-09Effective Aug 7, 1998AlliedSignal Inc. Model TPE331 Series Turboprop EnginesOne-time

Fuel manifold assemblies repaired by Hoses Unlimited may have defective fittings that could leak fuel onto hot turbine components and cause an engine fire. Operators must remove suspect fuel manifolds and replace them with serviceable assemblies.

Engine models named TPE331-10, TPE331-11, TPE331-12, TPE331-8

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD98-04-15Effective Apr 27, 1998AlliedSignal Inc. TPE331 Series Turboprop and TSE331 Turboshaft EnginesOne-time

Cracks have been found in third stage turbine stators due to thermal fatigue, which could lead to turbine wheel separation and an uncontained engine failure. This AD requires replacement or radiographic inspection and replacement if necessary of affected turbine stators.

Engine models named TPE331-1, TPE331-2, TPE331-2UA, TPE331-3U, TPE331-3UW, TPE331-5, TPE331-5A, TPE331-5AB, TPE331-5B, TPE331-6, TPE331-6A

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD97-15-10Effective Sep 22, 1997AlliedSignal Inc. TPE331 Series Turboprop EnginesOne-time

Icing of the inlet Pt2 sensor in TPE331 engines can cause erroneous pressure signals leading to non-responsive power lever movement. This AD requires revising emergency procedures in the AFM/POH and replacing or reworking orifice fittings and restrictors to prevent loss of engine power control.

Engine models named TPE331-10, TPE331-11, TPE331-12, TPE331-3, TPE331-5, TPE331-6

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD95-16-08Effective Aug 4, 1995AlliedSignal, Inc. TPE331 Series Turboprop and TSE331 Series Turboshaft EnginesRepetitive

Some TPE331 and TSE331 engines were repaired or maintained by Fliteline Maintenance (a shop in Texas) or specific individuals who performed substandard work, risking turbine failures and engine fires. Operators must search engine records to identify any engines serviced by Fliteline, verify all life-limited components, and inspect affected parts to ensure compliance with applicable directives.

Engine models named TPE331 series

Read the AD in the Federal Register
AD95-13-08Effective Jul 12, 1995Pratt & Whitney Canada Model PT6A-67D Turboprop EnginesRepetitive

Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-67D engines installed on Beech 1900D aircraft may experience cracking in compressor turbine components. After installation of improved engine components, owners must remove the engine RPM operating restriction placard and revert the Airplane Flight Manual to its original state.

Engine models named PT6A-67D

Read the AD in the Federal Register

Engine ADs name an engine model family used on some Cheyennes; check the exact model and serial. 1 more apply by part number only and are not listed.

Accident history

51 U.S. accidents involving the Cheyenne since 1995, 22 of them fatal, with 73 fatalities. Homebuilt aircraft excluded. Counts, not rates: they follow fleet size, hours flown and how the airplane is used.

By phase of flight1995–2026
  • Ground30
  • Takeoff and climb117
  • Cruise118
  • Maneuvering11
  • Approach and descent105
  • Landing151

Phase of the event the NTSB recorded as defining the accident.

By five-year periodAccidents
  • 1995–1999124
  • 2000–2004125
  • 2005–200982
  • 2010–201473
  • 2015–201976
  • 2020–202432
  • 2025–202620

2026 is year to date. Investigations can take a year or more to reach the data.

NTSB cause findings, 2008–2026 · share of 22 accidents with findings

  • 45% Personnel issues
  • 36% Aircraft systems, powerplant and structure
  • 27% Aircraft performance and control
  • 27% Not determined

Most frequent cause findings

  1. Aircraft controlPersonnel issues7
  2. Airspeed: not attained/maintainedAircraft performance and control2
  3. Landing flare: incorrect use/operationAircraft performance and control2
  4. Descent/approach/glide path: not attained/maintainedAircraft performance and control1
  5. Passenger/crew doors: incorrect use/operationAircraft systems, powerplant and structure1
  6. Use of equip/systemPersonnel issues1
  7. Gear extension and retract sys: not used/operatedAircraft systems, powerplant and structure1
  8. Electrical pwr sys wiring: fatigue/wear/corrosionAircraft systems, powerplant and structure1
  9. windshield system-Flight compartment windows: fatigue/wear/corrosionAircraft systems, powerplant and structure1
  10. Use of policy/procedurePersonnel issues1

Findings about systems and powerplant

  1. Passenger/crew doors: incorrect use/operationDoors1
  2. Gear extension and retract sys: not used/operatedLanding gear system1
  3. Electrical pwr sys wiring: fatigue/wear/corrosionElectrical power system1
  4. windshield system-Flight compartment windows: fatigue/wear/corrosionWindows1
  5. Electrical pwr sys wiring: designElectrical power system1
  6. windshield system-Flight compartment windows: damaged/degradedWindows1

Wording is the NTSB’s. An accident can carry findings in several categories. Read individual investigations in the NTSB’s CAROL database.

What gets written up

452 reports · 1995–2025

The ten systems with the most service difficulty reports, by FAA system code (JASC). Fewer than 200 reports were filed on the Cheyenne in 2016–2025, so read these as long-run patterns.

32Landing Gear Retract/​Extend SystemJASC 3230 · Landing Gear System357.7%0

Parts most often named Bracket (4) · Arm (4) · Link (3) · Shuttle Valve (3)

VALVE PARTIALLY OPENED ALLOWS FLUID THROUGH TO PNUMATIC SIDE. IT IS SUSPECT OF WIND/SIDE LOAD TO PUSH AGAINST IB GEAR DOOR, FORCING HYDRAULIC FLUID PAST VALVE TO PNUMATIC SIDE.

Reported condition, as filed2014 · SDR PQG2014F00000

DURING ROUTINE INSPECTION, RT MLG SIDE BRACE WAS FOUND CRACKED. THIS IS A POST SB 0817C PART. PART LIFE-LIMIT IS 3,000 HRS PART TTSN:1876.7 HRS. PART WAS REPLACED WITH NEW UNIT. NOTE: THIS IS THE SECOND OCCASION THAT THIS PART HAS BEEN FOUND CRACKED ON THIS MODEL ACFT. PREVIOUS M & D WAS SUBMITTED.

Reported condition, as filed2012 · SDR GW1R20120427181

DURING ROUTINE INSP, MX OF THE NLG THE LINK ASSY, NLG IDLER WAS FOUND CRACKED IN THREE (3) AREAS. THERE IS NO LIFE LIMIT ON THIS PART AND NO SPECIAL INSP REQUIREMENTS. SUGGEST 500 HR REPETIVE IN CONJUNCTION WITH SL1088 NLG SIDE BRACE INSP.

Reported condition, as filed2010 · SDR 2010FA0000835
21Heating SystemJASC 2140 · Air Conditioning System173.8%1

Parts most often named Heater (3) · Tube (2) · Combustion Tube (2) · Head Gasket (1)

HEATER WAS O/H. HAS DATA PLATE ON THE HEATER JACKET. HEATER FAILED THE PRESSURE DECAY TEST. COMBUSTION TUBE ASSEMBLY HAS MULTIPLE LEAKS/HOLES. THE OUTER COMBUSTION TUBE SHOWS SIGN OF COLLAPSING FROM PRESSURIZATION. THE INTERIOR COMBUSTION TUBE IS SPLIT ALONG THE WELD SEAM AND DISTORTED.

Reported condition, as filed2015 · SDR 2015FA0000149

HEATER HAD ZERO TIME IN FEBRUARY 2004. OVERHAULED TO ZERO TIME IN JULY 2010 WITH NEW COMBUSTION TUBE ASSY. COMBUSTION TUBE INNER LINER HAS SAGGED, COLLAPSED AND PARTIALLY MELTED.

Reported condition, as filed2014 · SDR 2014FA0000251

DURING ROUTINE HEATER PRESSURE DECAY TEST HEATER WAS REMOVED AND INSPECTED. COMBUSTION CHAMBER/TUBE WAS FOUND CRUSHED INWARD ON ALL SIDES BUT NOT LEAKING. IF HEATER SHROUD WAS NOT REMOVED,CONDITION WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN DISCOVERED.

Reported condition, as filed2011 · SDR 2011FA0000495
52Passenger/​Crew DoorsJASC 5210 · Doors153.3%0

Parts most often named Bulkhead (4) · Bracket (2) · Snubber (1) · Doubler (1)

DURING PREFLIGHT INSPECTION PILOT FOND A MISSING RIVET ON THE MAIN CABIN DOOR HINGE FWD END. AFTER OPENING INTERIOR OF DOOR SUPPORT PN 46624-003 WAS FOUND TO HAVE A CRACK APPROXIMATELY 6 INCHES LONG, JUST ABOVE HINGE ATTACHMENT. ATTACHING BULKHEADS PN 46550-004 AND 46526-000 WERE ALSO CRACKED AT HINGE ATTACHMENT. DOOR WAS REPAIRED BY INSTALLING NEW SUPPORT AND BULKHEADS PER STANDARD PRACTICES.

Reported condition, as filed2002 · SDR 2003F00000

(CAN) DURING CLIMB THROUGH 13,000 FEET THE AIRCRAFT LOST CABIN PRESSURIZTION. INSPECTION FOUND THAT THE PRESSURE CONTROL CIRCUIT BREAKER HAD TRIPPED. FAULT TRACED TO THE DOOR SEAL SOLENOID WHICH HAD EXCESSIVE CURRENT DRAW.

Reported condition, as filed1998 · SDR CA980930010

DETECTED .50 INCH CRACK IN OUTER AIRCRAFT DOOR SKIN ORIGINATING AT END OF FORWARD SIDE OF DOOR HINGE AND EXTENDING UPWARDS. DISASSEMBLED DOOR AND FOUND THE FOLLOWING PARTS HAD FAILED: 466240-03 BRACKET (ON FORWRD LOWER SIDE) 466550-02 BULKHEAD (ON OUTER FLANGE ACROSS 2 RIVET HOLES) AND 46550-04 BULKHEAD (ON OUTER FLANGE ACROSS 2 RIVET HOLES). REPLACED ALL THREE SHEET METAL COMPONENTS, FABRICATED AND INSTALLED EXTERNAL DOUBLER OVER CRACKED AREA OF EXTERNAL DOOR SKIN IAW AC 43.13-1A AND 2A.

Reported condition, as filed1997 · SDR 97ZZZX1855
52Landing Gear DoorsJASC 5280 · Doors102.2%0

Parts most often named Hinge (6) · Door (2) · Skin (1) · Structure (1)

FOUND CRACK IN LT NOSE LANDING GEAR DOOR ON RADIUS OF FRONT STIFFENER SECTION. ALSO FOUND CRACK IN RT NOSE LANDING GEAR DOOR AT FORWARD HINGE ATTACH POINT. HAVE PREVIOUSLY FOUND CRACKS IN THE NOSE LANDING GEAR DOORS ON 4 OTHER PA-42'S. THE CRACKS ARE USUALLY IN THE DOOR HINGE ATTACH AREA. WE BELIEVE THE CRACKS ARE BEING CAUSED BY IN FLIGHT TURBULENCE, CAUSING THE DOORS TO VIBRATE IN FLIGHT.

Reported condition, as filed2006 · SDR RX8R2006003

(CAN) RIGHT INBOARD GEAR DOOR DROOPING. RED GEAR LIGHT ON DURING FLIGHT. RIGHT INBOARD GEAR DOOR HINGE FOUND BROKEN. HINGE REPLACED WITH STEEL TYPE.

Reported condition, as filed2005 · SDR CA050713001

(CAN) INFLIGHT, THE CREW NOTICED THAT THE RED GEAR IN TRANSIT LIGHT ILLUMINATED AT SPEEDS ABOVE 210 KNOTS. THE AIRCRAFT LANDED SAFELY AT ITS DESTINATION. UPON INSPECTION, THE INNER SKIN OF THE RIGHT OUTBOARD GEAR DOOR WAS FOUND CRACKED AND BENT INWARDS BY THE AIRFLOW. THE DOOR WAS REPLACED AND SATISFACTORY GEAR SWINGS WERE CARRIED OUT.

Reported condition, as filed2004 · SDR CA041220001
27Rudder Control SystemJASC 2720 · Flight Control System102.2%0

Parts most often named Torque Tube (7) · Bearing (1) · Tube (1) · Roll Pin (1)

DURING EVENT 1 INSPECTION RUDDER PEDAL TORQUE TUBE SUPPORT BEARING, PN 80859-002 WAS FOUND TO BE TORN FREE FROM THE FUSELAGE STRUCTURE WHERE IT ATTACHES BELOW THE CENTER INSTRUMENT PANEL.

Reported condition, as filed2011 · SDR 2011FA0000570

PILOTS RT RUDDER PEDAL ROLL PINS SHEARED. REFERENCE IPC PN 761792, FIG. 103, INDEX 14, PN 480572. FAILURE MAY CAUSE LOSS OF DIRECTIONAL CONTROL OR BRAKING ACTION DURING GROUND OPERATION. (K)

Reported condition, as filed2007 · SDR 2007FA0000657

FOUND RUDDER TORQUE TUBE WITH CORROSION ON TUBE AND SURROUNDING ALUMINUM RIB. FOUND DURING INSPECTION IAW SB1105. PROBABLE CAUSE IS DISSIMILAR METAL CORROSION. CLOSERER INSPECTION DURING EVENT 1 INSPECTIONS. REPAIRS REQUIRED REPLACEMENT OF THE TORQUE TUBE AND TWO RIBS.

Reported condition, as filed2003 · SDR 2003FA0000701
29Hydraulic System, MainJASC 2910 · Hydraulic Power System102.2%0

Parts most often named Line (4) · Hose (2) · Housing (2) · Hydraulic Line (1)

(CAN) DURING APPROACH THE CREW SELECTED GEAR DOWN AND THE GEAR WOULD NOT EXTEND. THEY MANUALLY EXTENDED THE GEAR BUT THE NOSE WOULD NOT FULLY GO DOWN. AFTER ATTEMPTS TO EXTEND THE NOSE GEAR THEY LANDED WITH THE NOSE GEAR NOT EXTENDED. AFTER INSPECTION AND TALKING WITH THE CREW THE L/H HYDRAULIC FILTER BOWL FAILED. THE BOWL CRACKED HALF WAY AROUND AND CAUSED THE SEAL TO BREAK AND THE HYDRAULIC FLUID LEAKED OUT.

Reported condition, as filed2015 · SDR CA150119008

LANDING GEAR WOULD NOT EXTEND AND WAS EXTENDING USING EMERGENCY PUMP. LANDED WITHOUT INCIDENT. NOTICE FLUID LOSS FROM NOSE AREA. ACFT WAS FERRIED TO MAINTENANCE FACILITY WITH LANDING GEAR EXTENDED. INSPECTION FINDING REVEALED THE NLG ACTUATOR HYD. "UP" HOSE WAS LEAKING. BOTH NLG ACTUATOR HOSES WERE REPLACED AS A PRECAUTION, SYSTEM HYD FILTERS WERE REPLACED, HYDRAULIC PUMPS WERE INSPECTED FOR OPERATION. ACCOMPLISHED LANDING GEAR RETRACTION AND SYSTEM LEAK CHECKS. ACFT WAS RETURNED TO [S/N removed].

Reported condition, as filed2014 · SDR GW1R201402200001

FAILURE OF THE LT HYDRAULIC FILTER HOUSING. HOUSING CRACKED BETWEEN LOWEST AND SECOND LOWEST ATTACHING THREADS. THE HOUSING THEN BENT AWAY FROM UPPER HOUSING CAUSING THE SEALING O-RING TO LEAK SIGNIFICANTLY. ACFT BACK UP SYS WORKED CORRECTLY AND THE LANDING GEAR WAS SUCCESSFULLY HAND PUMPED INTO THE DOWN AND LOCKED POSITION. ACFT LANDED SAFELY.

Reported condition, as filed2013 · SDR 2013FA0000057
32Main Landing Gear Strut/​Axle/​TruckJASC 3213 · Landing Gear System92.0%0

Parts most often named Housing (3) · Strut (2) · Valve (1) · Link (1)

(CAN) DURING THE INSPECTION, WHILE GREASING NOSE LANDING GEAR, MAINTENANCE NOTICED BLISTERING UNDER THE PAINT. MAINTENANCE REMOVED THE BLISTERS, CLEANED-UP THE GREASE AND NOTICED A HAIRLINE FRACTURE ON GEAR STRUT HOUSING ASSY. (TC NR 20091118015)

Reported condition, as filed2009 · SDR CA091118015

RIGHT MAIN LANDING GEAR STRUT CRACKED AT ATTACH POINT TO ACTUATING BRACE. CRACK IS 2.5 INCHES LONG ALONG AFT SIDE OF AFT ATTACH POINT LUG. CRACK IS AT SAME LOCATION THAT GETS INSPECTED IAW PIPER [S/N removed] BULLETIN 969. AREA WAS INSPECTED PER SB 65.2 HRS. AGO, USING DYE PENETRANT. THERE WAS NO CRACK AT THAT TIME.

Reported condition, as filed2004 · SDR RX8R2004002

(CAN) DURING INSPECTION, A CRACK WAS FOUND ON THE AFT RIGHT MAIN LANDING GEAR TRUNNION ASSEMBLY. THE CRACK WAS FOUND TO BE ON THE UPPER REINFORCEMENT RIB. THE PART WAS REPLACED WITH NEW.

Reported condition, as filed2000 · SDR CA000606032
32Landing Gear ActuatorJASC 3233 · Landing Gear System92.0%0

Parts most often named Bolt (4) · Actuator (3) · Arm (1) · Rod End (1)

BOLT PN 400-159 WAS FOUND SHEARED. SB 885 SPECIFIES BOLT REPLACEMENT AT 500 HR INTERVALS. FAILED BOTH TTSN WAS 414.1 HRS. REPLACEMENT BOLT PN 400-159, RIB PN 50377-011, BRACKET PN 73524-003, ACTUATORS AND MISC. HARDWARE.

Reported condition, as filed2010 · SDR 2010FA0000272

(CAN) ON APPROACH THE LANDING GEAR WAS SELECTED DOWN, THE RIGHT MAIN & NOSE GEAR LOCKED DOWN CORRECTLY BUT THE LEFT MAIN DID NOT. THE CREW THEN SELECTED EMERGENCY GEAR EXTENSION AND LANDED SAFELY. UPON INSPECTION THE LEFT ACTUATOR UPPER BOLT WAS FOUND TO BE SHEARED.

Reported condition, as filed2002 · SDR CA020510019

(CAN) DURING CLIMB, PILOTS SELECTED GEAR UP AND HEARD AN UNUSUAL NOISE. IT WAS THEN NOTICED THAT THE LANDING GEAR WOULD NOT RETRACT. GEAR DOWN WAS SELECTED AND THREE GREEN AND NEUTRAL WERE OBSERVED. THE AIRCRAFT WAS SAFELY LANDED WITHOUT INCIDENT. UPON FURTHER INVESTIGATION, IT WAS FOUND THAT THE ACTUATOR ARM AND ROD END WERE SHEARED OFF, AND NO FURTHER DAMAGE WAS FOUND.

Reported condition, as filed1999 · SDR CA990318051
61Propeller AssemblyJASC 6110 · Propeller System92.0%0

Parts most often named Pilot Tube (3) · Bearing (2) · Low Stop Collar (2) · Clamp Assy (1)

AT THE OUTER MARKER ON APPROACH, THE PILOT NOTICED AN OIL ODOR IN THE ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEM. THE AIRCRAFT LANDED WITHOUT INCIDENT. POST FLIGHT WALK AROUND REVEALED OIL LEAK AT THE RT PROPELLER. MAINTENANCE WAS DISPATCHED AND INVESTIGATION REVEALED THE RT PROPELLER DOME PISTON O-RING WAS CUT/ROLLED. THE O-RING WAS REPLACED AND THE AIRCRAFT WAS RETURNED TO [S/N removed]. (K)

Reported condition, as filed2005 · SDR 2005FA0001211

CLAMP ASSY RAPCO P/N RA1983-2 WAS SUBSTITUTED FOR A BFG 3E1883-2 UNDER THE ASSUMPTION OF JORDAN PROPELLER [S/N removed] CRS NR 2273. THIS IS REPORTED AS AN FAA-PMH APPROVED PART WHICH IS IN FACT A NON FAA-PMA PART. THIS CLAMP ASSY FAILED CAUSING THE FOLLOWING REPAIRS: 2 CLAMP ASSY'S PN 3E1883-2, 1 - 1E1150-2 TERMINAL STRIP, 1-4E1889-2 LEAD, 1-57-4E1555-1 SLIP RING, 1 - MS21919-DG4 CLAMP.

Reported condition, as filed1997 · SDR 97ZZZX4725
55Horizontal Stabilizer, Spar/​RibJASC 5511 · Empennage Structure81.8%0

Parts most often named Rib (5) · Spar (3)

DURING A ROUTINE INSPECTION, THE LT OB STABILIZER RIB WAS FOUND CRACKED NEAR THE HINGE ATTACH AREA. THE RIB WAS REPLACED AND THE AIRCRAFT WAS RETURNED TO [S/N removed].

Reported condition, as filed2006 · SDR CA060510013

(CAN) DURING AN EVENT NR 1 INSPECTION THE LT HORIZONTAL STABILIZER OB RIB WAS FOUND CRACKED WHERE THE ELEVATOR OB HINGE ATTACH POINT IS. THE RIB WAS REPLACED. (TC NR 20061115006)

Reported condition, as filed2006 · SDR CA061115006

(CAN) DURING SCHEDULED 100 HOUR EVENT NR 2 INSPECTION, CRACKS FOUND ON LEFT SIDE STABILIZER SPAR ASSEMBLY AFT BETWEEN RIB STABILIZER LEADING EDGE BL102 AND BL114.

Reported condition, as filed2003 · SDR CA030211007

Open a row to read what mechanics wrote. Tail and serial numbers are removed.

Where on the airframe

Where Cheyenne service difficulty reports cluster, by airframe zone12345
  1. 1Landing gear & brakes53
  2. 2Cabin & systems42
  3. 3Flight controls10
  4. 4Propeller9
  5. 5Empennage8

Reports in the ten systems above, by zone. Schematic, not to scale.

Reports filed by year

1995: 21 reports19951996: 74 reports741997: 49 reports1998: 32 reports1999: 33 reports2000: 40 reports20002001: 24 reports2002: 31 reports2003: 18 reports2004: 17 reports2005: 24 reports20052006: 15 reports2007: 13 reports2008: 3 reports2009: 9 reports2010: 10 reports20102011: 5 reports2012: 11 reports2013: 4 reports2014: 5 reports2015: 2 reports20152016: 3 reports2017: 3 reports2018: 2 reports2019: 0 reports2020: 2 reports20202021: 0 reports2022: 0 reports2023: 0 reports2024: 0 reports2025: 2 reports (year to date)’25

Peak 1996 (74). Hatched bar is 2025 to date.

At the pre-buy

My pre-buy card · Cheyenne

0 of 7 looked at

The components written up most often since 2011. Take this to the pre-buy and ask your inspector about each one; tap a mark to record what they found. Saved on this device only.

  1. Main Landing GearJASC 3210 · 4 reports · Not yet looked at
  2. Heating SystemJASC 2140 · 4 reports · Not yet looked at
  3. Hydraulic System, MainJASC 2910 · 3 reports · Not yet looked at
  4. Landing Gear Retract/​Extend SystemJASC 3230 · 3 reports · Not yet looked at
  5. Turbine Engine Compressor SectionJASC 7230 · 2 reports · Not yet looked at
  6. Propeller GovernorJASC 6122 · 2 reports · Not yet looked at
  7. Turbine Engine Oil SystemJASC 7261 · 2 reports · Not yet looked at
open OK found something

A starting point for the conversation with your inspector, not maintenance advice.

What buyers get caught by

The expensive surprises on any used airplane are missing logbooks, corrosion under paint, outstanding ADs, an engine near overhaul, and the same squawk written up again and again. The card lists where the Cheyenne gets written up; the AD timetable below lists what the FAA requires.

Ask for the logbook entries that match each item. A repeated entry is a pattern, not a coincidence.

Alerts for the Cheyenne

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