EASA AD US-2017-26-01
Engine - High-Pressure Turbine (HPT) Stage 1 Blade Retainer - Inspection
Summary
Federal Aviation Administration Airworthiness Directive 2017-26-01 is a final rule addressing certain General Electric Company GEnx-1B64/P2, -1B67/P2, -1B70/P2, -1B70/75/P2, -1B70C/P2, and -1B74/75/P2 turbofan engines. This directive requires inspection of the high-pressure turbine (HPT) stage 1 blade retainer due to a reported failure that caused an in-flight engine shutdown. The AD aims to ensure continued airworthiness and safety of affected engines.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory inspections of the HPT stage 1 blade retainer at the next piece-part exposure of the affected engines. It clarifies compliance requirements by consolidating inspection timing to piece-part exposure rather than multiple intervals. The AD incorporates by reference General Electric GEnx-1B Service Bulletin 72-0326 Revision 02 dated August 16, 2017.
Why It Matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals because failure of the HPT stage 1 blade retainer can lead to engine in-flight shutdown, posing significant safety risks. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure timely inspections to detect potential defects and prevent unsafe conditions. Compliance helps maintain engine reliability and avoids costly unscheduled repairs or operational disruptions.
What To Do
Operators of aircraft with the specified GE GEnx-1B engine models must inspect the HPT stage 1 blade retainer at the next piece-part exposure of the part. They should follow the procedures outlined in GE GEnx-1B Service Bulletin 72-0326 Revision 02. The AD became effective on January 23, 2018, and compliance is required by that date for any applicable inspections.
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