EASA AD 2018-0049R2
Engine — Intermediate Pressure Compressor Rotor Shaft and Balance Weights — Inspection / Modification
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0049R2 is an updated regulatory requirement addressing inspection and modification of the intermediate pressure compressor rotor shaft and balance weights on Rolls-Royce RB211 Trent 700 engines, commonly installed on Airbus A330 aircraft. The directive mandates specific on-wing and in-shop inspections to detect cracks and discrepancies, as well as modification requirements to prevent rotor shaft failure. It applies to certain serial numbers except those with a specific modification that excludes them from the directive.
What Changed
This revision excludes engines fitted with an intermediate pressure compressor shaft embodying Rolls-Royce modification 72-AG402 at zero shaft cycles from the applicability of the directive. It also updates compliance times and clarifies inspection requirements, continuing to require inspections and corrective actions while relaxing some modification timelines.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to prevent potential failure of the intermediate pressure compressor rotor shaft, which could lead to non-contained engine debris and aircraft damage. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft airworthiness and safety, avoiding unplanned engine removals and costly repairs.
What To Do
Operators must perform on-wing visual borescope inspections within specified flight or duty cycles as outlined in the Rolls-Royce Non-Modification Service Bulletin RB.211-72-AG270, and conduct eddy current inspections during qualified shop visits. Engines must be modified with the new balance weight design at the next qualified shop visit after 28 November 2011 to terminate repetitive inspections. Any detected discrepancies require corrective action before engine release to service.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.