EASA AD 2023-0165
Engine — Low Pressure Turbine Stage 1 Blade Assemblies — Inspection / Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2023-0165 is an airworthiness directive addressing Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 series engines installed on Boeing 787 aircraft. It mandates inspection and possible replacement of low pressure turbine stage 1 blade assemblies, specifically those with Part Number FW68788, due to reported cracking and separation in the weld region of blade pairs. The directive aims to ensure continued airworthiness and prevent engine in-flight shutdowns caused by blade failure.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory inspection intervals for affected low pressure turbine stage 1 blade assemblies and requires replacement if defects are found. It also regulates the installation of only serviceable parts and mandates replacement of affected parts during qualified shop visits. The directive provides detailed inspection and corrective action instructions based on Rolls-Royce Alert Non-Modification Service Bulletin TRENT 1000 72-AK919.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential unsafe condition that could lead to engine failure and reduced aircraft control. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to avoid in-flight shutdowns and ensure engine reliability. Compliance helps maintain safety standards and prevents costly secondary damage to the engine's low pressure turbine module.
What To Do
Operators must inspect affected low pressure turbine stage 1 blade assemblies before they exceed 30,000 flight hours or within 90 days after 5 September 2023, whichever is later, and repeat inspections every 4,500 flight hours thereafter. If cracks or separations are found, corrective actions including part replacement must be taken before further flight or engine release to service. During each qualified shop visit after 5 September 2023, all affected parts must be replaced with new serviceable parts.
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