Airworthiness DirectiveSupersededEASA AD 2018-0188R1

Engine – Low Pressure Compressor Blades – Inspection / Replacement

Superseded. Comply with 2024-0102, which replaces this document.

Published: Sep 5, 2018
Effective: Sep 13, 2018
Deadline: Dec 31, 2018
Replaces: 2017-0241
Replaces: 2018-0188

Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co Kg RB211 TRENT 700

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What to do

Operators must perform ultrasonic inspections of the specified low pressure compressor blades within the compliance times outlined in the directive, with intervals not exceeding 1,200 flight or standard duty cycles. Any blade found defective beyond pass/fail criteria must be replaced before further flight. Installation of affected parts is permitted only if they meet inspection or cycle limits, and all inspections must follow the instructions in the referenced Rolls-Royce service bulletins. The final compliance date for initial inspections is 31 December 2018.

Summary

EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0188R1 is an amendment addressing safety concerns for Rolls-Royce RB211 Trent 700 engines, commonly installed on Airbus A330 aircraft. The directive mandates ultrasonic inspections of specific low pressure compressor blades to detect potential blade release risks. It applies to various part numbers of compressor blades and aims to prevent engine damage and possible injury due to blade failure.

What changed

This revision updates the previous AD 2017-0241 by incorporating changes introduced in Rolls-Royce Alert Non-Modification Service Bulletin RB.211-72-AH465 Revision 5. It refines inspection thresholds and intervals, introduces distinctions between standard and non-standard operations, and provides credit for inspections performed under certain earlier revisions of the service bulletin. The AD also clarifies installation conditions for affected parts.

Why it matters

This AD is critical for aviation professionals to ensure the continued airworthiness of RB211 Trent 700 engines by preventing low pressure compressor blade failures that could lead to engine damage or safety hazards. Operators and maintenance organizations must adhere to the inspection and replacement requirements to mitigate risks of in-flight engine issues and ground injuries. Compliance ensures regulatory conformity and operational safety for affected Airbus A330 fleets.

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