EASA AD US-2019-21-11
SUPERSEDED BY FAA AD 2021-14-06
Summary
FAA Airworthiness Directive 2019-21-11 is a final rule addressing certain Pratt & Whitney PW1519G, PW1521G, PW1521GA, PW1524G, PW1525G, PW1521G-3, PW1524G-3, PW1525G-3, PW1919G, PW1921G, PW1922G, PW1923G, and PW1923G-A turbofan engines. This directive mandates inspections of the low-pressure compressor rotor 1 (LPC R1) for cracks or damage to prevent in-flight failures. It removes the previous requirement to inspect the LPC inlet guide vane (IGV) for alignment and expands applicability to additional engine models.
What Changed
This AD supersedes AD 2019-19-11 by removing the inspection requirement for the LPC IGV alignment and reducing compliance times for inspections of the LPC R1. It also broadens the applicability to include engines with less than 300 flight cycles since installation of certain electronic engine control software versions. The directive requires more frequent inspections for zero time spare engines and engines with recent software installations.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses an unsafe condition that has caused multiple in-flight shutdowns due to LPC R1 failures. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply promptly to prevent potential uncontained engine failures that could lead to aircraft damage or loss of control. The updated inspection intervals and expanded applicability ensure enhanced safety and regulatory compliance.
What To Do
Affected operators must perform initial and repetitive borescope inspections of the LPC R1 within 15 flight cycles for zero time spare engines and within 50 flight cycles for other affected engines from the effective date. Depending on inspection results, replacement of the LPC may be required. Operators should follow the procedures outlined in the referenced Pratt & Whitney Service Bulletins and submit any comments by December 13, 2019.
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