EASA AD US-2019-18-08
SUPERSEDED BY FAA AD 2021-26-04
Summary
Airworthiness Directive 2019-18-08 is a final rule issued by the FAA affecting all Engine Alliance GP7270 and GP7277 model turbofan engines. This directive addresses an unsafe condition related to potential cracks and damage in the engine fan hub assembly, which could lead to uncontained engine failure. It mandates inspections and possible part replacements to ensure continued airworthiness.
What Changed
This AD supersedes AD 2019-16-04 by reducing the compliance time for the initial eddy current inspection (ECI) and introducing repetitive ECIs of the engine fan hub blade slot bottom and front edge for cracks. It retains the visual inspection requirements and mandates replacement of the engine fan hub blade lock assembly for certain serial-numbered engines.
Why It Matters
The directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a serious safety risk of uncontained engine fan hub failure, which can compromise flight safety. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to detect and mitigate cracks early, preventing potential in-flight engine damage and costly unscheduled repairs.
What To Do
Affected operators must perform an initial and repetitive eddy current inspection of the engine fan hub blade slots within the reduced compliance times specified. They must also conduct visual inspections of the engine fan hub assembly and replace the fan hub blade lock assembly on certain engines. The AD became effective on October 9, 2019, and comments were accepted until November 8, 2019.
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