EASA AD 2021-0176
Engine — Critical Parts — Removal from Service
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0176 is an official regulatory document addressing Rolls-Royce RB211 Trent 900 series engines, specifically models Trent 970-84, 970B-84, 972-84, 972B-84, and 972E-84. It mandates the removal from service of certain critical engine parts identified by part number and serial number due to incorrect life usage records. The directive aims to ensure continued airworthiness and prevent potential engine failures.
What Changed
This new Airworthiness Directive introduces mandatory removal from service of affected life limited parts (LLP) that have incorrect cyclic life consumption records and prohibits their reinstallation on any engine. It requires operators to comply with specific Rolls-Royce Time Limits Manual tasks to identify and remove these parts. No previous AD is superseded by this directive.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk related to potential failure of life limited parts, which could lead to high-energy debris release and possible loss of aircraft control. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft safety and regulatory conformity. Failure to comply could result in unsafe conditions and regulatory penalties.
What To Do
Operators must remove all affected critical parts from RB211 Trent 900 engines within 30 days of the directive's effective date, using the applicable engine manual replacement instructions. From the effective date, installation of any affected parts is prohibited. Compliance with the Rolls-Royce Time Limits Manual tasks is required to identify the affected parts.
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