FAA Orders Inspections and Replacements for Certain Pratt & Whitney Engines
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The Federal Aviation Administration has issued a new airworthiness directive for specific Pratt & Whitney engine models, including the PW4074D, PW4077D, PW4084D, PW4090, and PW4090-3. This action stems from a quality issue where some high-pressure compressor drum rotor disk assemblies were not shot peened correctly. Shot peening is a manufacturing process that strengthens metal parts; if done incorrectly, the parts may not be as durable as required.
Why it matters: This is a safety measure to prevent potential mechanical failures in the engine’s high-pressure compressor. While it does not ground all aircraft using these engines, it does force airlines to inspect and potentially swap out specific engine components, which will incur maintenance costs and scheduling adjustments.
Who it affects
- Airlines operating aircraft equipped with the listed Pratt & Whitney engine models
The Federal Aviation Administration published this rule in the Federal Register; readers should consult the official document for specific part numbers and compliance deadlines.
Agency: Transportation Department, Federal Aviation Administration
Source: Federal Register — read the official document