EASA AD 2024-0226
Engine — High-Pressure Compressor Stages 6-10 Spools and High-Pressure Turbine Rotor Stage 1 Disks — Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0226 is an airworthiness directive addressing the replacement of high-pressure compressor stages 6-10 spools and high-pressure turbine rotor stage 1 disks in CFM International LEAP-1B engines. These engines are commonly installed on Boeing 737-8, 737-8200, and 737-9 aircraft. The directive mandates replacement of affected parts to ensure continued airworthiness and safety.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0226 supersedes AD 2023-0109 and expands the list of affected parts to include additional high-pressure compressor and turbine disks identified by CFM International. It retains previous replacement requirements and adds new parts to the replacement and installation prohibition list as detailed in updated CFM service bulletins.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical because affected parts may contain iron inclusions from manufacturing defects, which can reduce mechanical properties and lead to premature failure. Failure of these parts could result in high-energy debris release and potential loss of aircraft control. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to maintain safety and regulatory compliance.
What To Do
Operators of LEAP-1B engines must replace all affected high-pressure compressor spools and turbine disks within the compliance times specified in the directive or during the next piece-part exposure, whichever occurs first. Installation of affected parts is prohibited from the effective date of 10 December 2024. Compliance must follow instructions in the referenced CFM service bulletins.