EASA AD 2024-0067-E: Engine — Life Limited Parts — Replacement

What to do

Operators must replace all affected compressor discharge pressure seals, HPC stage 3 disks, and HPT rear shafts on Group 1 engines before the next flight after March 11, 2024. From the effective date, no affected parts may be installed on any engine, and no engines with affected parts may be installed on any aircraft. Maintenance personnel should follow the applicable engine maintenance manual instructions for replacement and verify part eligibility before installation.

Summary

EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0067-E is an emergency directive addressing life limited parts replacement for CFM International CFM56 series engines, including models CFM56-2, -3, -5, -5B, -5C, and -7B. These engines are commonly installed on Airbus A318, A319, A320, A321, A340, and Boeing 737 series aircraft from the 300 to 900ER variants. The directive targets specific compressor discharge pressure seals, high-pressure compressor stage 3 disks, and high-pressure turbine rear shafts identified as affected parts due to potential damage from improper maintenance.

What changed

This new emergency AD requires immediate replacement of affected life limited parts on Group 1 engines before the next flight after the effective date. It prohibits installation of any affected parts on all engines and forbids installation of engines containing affected parts on any aircraft. The directive introduces strict compliance measures to mitigate risks from electrical arcing damage caused by improper use of induction heaters during maintenance.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for aviation professionals because failure to comply could lead to uncontained engine part release, causing severe engine and aircraft damage. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure affected parts are identified and replaced promptly to maintain airworthiness and safety. Compliance teams need to update maintenance and installation procedures to prevent use of affected parts and engines, ensuring regulatory adherence and operational safety.