EASA AD US-2020-20-11
Engine - High-Pressure Turbine Rotor Stage 2 Disks and Stage 6-10 Compressor Rotor Spools - Removal
Summary
The document titled "Engine - High-Pressure Turbine Rotor Stage 2 Disks and Stage 6-10 Compressor Rotor Spools - Removal" is a final rule airworthiness directive issued by the FAA. It applies to certain General Electric Company GEnx-1B and GEnx-2B model turbofan engines, specifically addressing affected high-pressure turbine rotor stage 2 disks and stages 6-10 compressor rotor spools. The directive mandates removal of these parts due to detected melt-related freckles that reduce their life limits.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory removal and replacement of specific HPT rotor stage 2 disks and stages 6-10 compressor rotor spools before they reach revised life limits. It also revises the applicability to list affected part and serial numbers rather than engine serial numbers, ensuring removal of affected parts regardless of engine installation. The AD prohibits installation of these affected parts after the effective date.
Why It Matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk from potential failure of turbine disks and compressor spools caused by material defects. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure timely removal and replacement of affected parts to prevent uncontained engine failures, which could cause significant damage to aircraft and risk to flight safety. Compliance helps maintain regulatory adherence and operational safety.
What To Do
Affected operators must identify engines with the specified part numbers and serial numbers of HPT rotor stage 2 disks and stages 6-10 compressor rotor spools. These parts must be removed from service and replaced with eligible parts before reaching the new cycles since new thresholds specified in the directive. No affected parts may be installed on engines after November 3, 2020, the effective date of the AD.
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