EASA AD 2025-0002
Engine — Intermediate Pressure Compressor / Variable Inlet Guide Vane — Inspection(s)
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2025-0002 is an airworthiness directive addressing the inspection of the intermediate pressure compressor variable inlet guide vane (VIGV) on Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 series engines, commonly installed on Boeing 787 aircraft. The directive mandates repetitive borescope inspections of the affected VIGV parts to detect cracking due to high-cycle fatigue. It applies to multiple Trent 1000 engine variants and aims to ensure continued airworthiness and safety.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive inspections of the intermediate pressure compressor VIGV with part number FW54936 on Trent 1000 engines. It requires initial inspections within specified compliance times and follow-on inspections at reduced intervals if cracks are detected. The directive also specifies removal and replacement criteria for cracked parts and accepts in-shop inspections as an alternative to on-wing inspections.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential unsafe condition that could lead to engine part release, uncommanded in-flight shutdowns, and reduced aircraft control. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to prevent engine failures and ensure flight safety. Timely inspections and corrective actions help maintain engine reliability and regulatory compliance.
What To Do
Operators must perform initial borescope inspections of the affected VIGV parts within the compliance times defined by engine flight hours or cycles, then continue inspections at intervals not exceeding 2,000 engine flight hours or 500 engine flight cycles. If cracks are found, follow-on inspections at reduced intervals are required, and engines must be removed from service if cracks exceed specified lengths. Inspections performed before the effective date according to earlier NMSB revisions are acceptable for compliance.