EASA AD US-2021-23-51
[Final Rule] Engine / Air - Compressor Variable Geometry Actuator - Inspection
Summary
The Final Rule titled 'Engine / Air - Compressor Variable Geometry Actuator - Inspection' is a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) airworthiness directive addressing certain General Electric Company CF34-8C and CF34-8E model turbofan engines. It mandates inspections of the master and slave compressor variable geometry actuators due to corrosion and seizure issues that caused an in-flight engine shutdown on a Bombardier CRJ1000 aircraft. The directive requires inspection, possible replacement of affected parts, and reporting inspection results to GE.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory one-time inspections of the master and slave compressor variable geometry actuators on GE CF34-8C and CF34-8E engines. Depending on inspection findings, parts must be replaced with eligible components. It also requires operators to report inspection results to General Electric. This rule follows an earlier emergency AD issued in November 2021.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk that could lead to engine failure and loss of thrust control, impacting flight safety. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure timely inspections and part replacements to maintain airworthiness and comply with FAA regulations. Compliance helps prevent in-flight engine shutdowns and potential accidents.
What To Do
Operators of aircraft with GE CF34-8C and CF34-8E engines must perform the required inspections of the compressor VG actuators within 5 calendar days or 30 flight hours for one engine, and within 60 calendar days or 350 flight hours for the other engine. If corrosion or seizure is found, affected parts must be replaced with eligible parts. Inspection results must be reported to General Electric as specified.
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