EASA AD 2026-0189 — Engine Oil – Oil Pump – Operational Prohibition

Summary

EASA Airworthiness Directive 2026-0189 is an operational prohibition directive affecting Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG RB211 Trent 700 engines, specifically models Trent 768-60, 772-60, 772B-60, and 772C-60 installed on Airbus A330 aircraft. The directive addresses oil pump parts with specific part numbers that have been identified as non-serviceable due to potential failure modes leading to low oil pressure and possible dual in-flight engine shutdowns. It mandates restrictions on the installation and operation of affected oil pumps to ensure continued airworthiness and flight safety.

What Changed

This directive supersedes EASA AD 2026-0172-E and expands the list of affected oil pump part numbers. It increases the life threshold for oil pumps from 135 flight hours to 400 flight hours and requires rectification at approved maintenance facilities. Additionally, it prohibits the concurrent operation of affected oil pumps on both engines of twin-engine aircraft and restricts installation to only serviceable parts as defined in the directive.

Why It Matters

This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety risk that could lead to dual engine shutdowns in flight, severely compromising aircraft control. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to avoid operational disruptions and maintain regulatory approval. The expanded scope and stricter requirements mean that more engines and parts are affected, increasing the need for careful inventory and maintenance planning.

What To Do

Operators must ensure that from 7 days after 15 October 2026, no twin-engine aircraft operate with affected oil pumps installed on both engines simultaneously. Installation of oil pumps is only allowed if the parts are serviceable as defined by the directive, effective from 15 October 2026. Replacement of affected parts with serviceable ones must be performed according to approved Rolls-Royce maintenance instructions to comply with the directive.