EASA AD US-2020-18-09
Engine Fuel and Control - Overspeed Fuel Solenoid Valve Assembly & Fuel Filter Outlet - Inspection
Summary
The Federal Aviation Administration Airworthiness Directive 2020-18-09 is a final rule addressing all Honeywell International Inc. ALF502L, ALF502L-2, ALF502L-2A, ALF502L-2C, ALF502L-3, ALF502R-3, ALF502R-3A, ALF502R-4, ALF502R-5, ALF502R-6, LF507-1F, and LF507-1H model turbofan engines. It mandates inspections and maintenance of the overspeed fuel solenoid valve assembly and fuel filter outlet to prevent unsafe conditions caused by uncontained release of low-pressure turbine blades. This directive applies to engines installed on various aircraft using these Honeywell turbofan models.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces requirements for initial and repetitive visual inspections of the overspeed fuel solenoid valve assembly and fuel filter outlet. It also requires inspection of adjacent fuel system tube assemblies and mandates periodic overhaul or replacement of the overspeed fuel solenoid valve assembly based on inspection results. The directive updates service information references to the latest Honeywell service bulletins and defines parts eligible for installation.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to ensure engine safety and prevent catastrophic engine failures due to uncontained turbine blade releases. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to maintain airworthiness and avoid potential in-flight engine damage. Compliance helps reduce risks, ensures regulatory adherence, and supports continued safe operation of affected Honeywell turbofan engines.
What To Do
Affected operators must perform initial and repetitive visual inspections of the overspeed fuel solenoid valve assembly and fuel filter outlet as specified. Depending on inspection outcomes, they must inspect adjacent fuel system tubes and replace or overhaul the solenoid valve assembly as required. All actions must be completed by the effective date of October 21, 2020, and periodic overhauls must be conducted thereafter according to the service bulletins referenced in the directive.
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