EASA AD US-2022-04-07
Engine Fuel & Control - Fuel Metering Unit Bypass Valve Plug - Inspection / Replacement
Summary
The Federal Aviation Administration's Airworthiness Directive 2022-04-07 addresses certain General Electric Company GEnx-1B and GEnx-2B model turbofan engines installed on Boeing 747-8F and 787-10 aircraft. This directive mandates inspection and potential replacement of the fuel metering unit (FMU) bypass valve plug to prevent unsafe conditions. The AD aims to mitigate risks of in-flight shutdowns caused by improperly torqued FMU BPV plugs.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a requirement for a shim check inspection of the FMU bypass valve plug on affected GE GEnx engines. Depending on inspection results, it may require replacement of the entire FMU. The AD was prompted by incidents involving fuel leaks and engine shutdowns linked to loose FMU BPV plugs.
Why It Matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety issue that can lead to loss of engine thrust control and in-flight shutdowns, directly impacting flight safety and operational reliability. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to avoid potential engine failures and associated operational disruptions. The directive helps maintain regulatory compliance and supports proactive risk management in engine maintenance.
What To Do
Operators of affected GE GEnx-1B and GEnx-2B engines must perform a shim check inspection of the FMU BPV plug within 150 flight cycles from March 9, 2022. If the inspection reveals issues, the FMU must be replaced according to the procedures specified in the referenced GE service bulletins. Stakeholders should also submit any comments on the AD by April 8, 2022.
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