EASA AD 26-084
Time Limits / Maintenance Checks – Engine Time Limits Manual – Amendment
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive PAD No. 26-084 is a proposed amendment concerning the time limits and maintenance checks for Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG RB211 Trent 900 engines, specifically models RB211 Trent 970-84, 972-84, and 972E-84, commonly installed on Airbus A380 aircraft. This directive updates the Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) within the Rolls-Royce Time Limits Manual Revision 70 to ensure continued airworthiness of these engines. It mandates compliance with new and more restrictive maintenance tasks and life limits to address potential unsafe conditions.
What Changed
The proposed directive supersedes EASA AD 2025-0069 and introduces the reinstatement of the Fluorescent Penetrant Inspection (FPI) for the Tail Bearing Housing Support Structure (TBHSS) that was previously omitted in a service bulletin. It consolidates all TBHSS inspections into the ALS and incorporates new or more restrictive maintenance tasks and life limits in the Rolls-Royce Time Limits Manual Revision 70. Additionally, it transfers mandatory inspections from a Non-Modification Service Bulletin into the ALS document.
Why It Matters
This amendment is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses potential undetected cracking risks in the RB211 Trent 900 engines, which could compromise engine safety. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must update their maintenance programs to reflect these changes to avoid unsafe conditions and ensure regulatory compliance. Failure to comply could lead to unsafe engine operation and regulatory penalties.
What To Do
Affected operators must replace engine components before exceeding life limits and perform all maintenance tasks within specified intervals as outlined in the updated ALS. They must revise their approved Aircraft Maintenance Programme (AMP) within 12 months of the directive's effective date to incorporate the new limitations and tasks. Any discrepancies found during inspections require corrective actions within specified compliance times or before the next flight if no time is given.
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