The lead Aviadvigatel/ Perm Motors PS-90A turbofan passed the 6,000h on the wing mark at the end of November, on an Aeroflot Ilyushin Il-96-300 flying a regular scheduled flight.
Aviadvigatel general director Yuri Reshetnikov says that the engine will shortly be removed and given a full stripdown examination, a procedure that was normal during the Soviet era, but which designers feel will enhance their ability to extend the engine's operational life further.
The PS-90A's time on the wing has grown to the current level from 2,500h achieved early in 1997 following an intensive improvement programme carried out jointly by the design bureau and the engine manufacturer.
Another five engines are about to reach the 6,000h mark, and will continue in service subject to regular safety checks and borescope examinations.
Source: Flight International
