EASA AD US-2023-04-19
Engine - High Pressure Compressor Rotor Stage 7-9 Spool - Inspection
Summary
The Federal Aviation Administration's Airworthiness Directive 2023-04-19 addresses certain General Electric Company GE90-110B1 and GE90-115B turbofan engines. It mandates fluorescent penetrant inspections (FPI) on the high-pressure compressor rotor stage 7-9 spools due to incomplete inspections during overhaul. This directive targets specific spool part numbers and serial numbers identified in GE Service Bulletin 72-0905.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a mandatory FPI inspection requirement for affected HPC rotor stage 7-9 spools at the next engine shop visit. Depending on inspection results, affected parts must be replaced with eligible spools. It is a newly adopted rule prompted by a manufacturer investigation revealing missed inspections during overhaul.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation maintenance and compliance teams to prevent potential in-flight engine shutdowns caused by undetected cracks on HPC rotor spools. Ensuring compliance reduces the risk of engine damage and enhances flight safety. Operators and MROs must verify inspection history and perform required inspections to maintain airworthiness.
What To Do
Operators and maintenance organizations must perform fluorescent penetrant inspections on all affected HPC rotor stage 7-9 spools at the next shop visit after March 27, 2023. If any defects are found, the spool must be replaced with a part eligible for installation. Comments on the directive are accepted until April 24, 2023.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.