US regulators have extended a directive to replace the gearbox and control software of Pratt & Whitney PW1100G engines, to encompass powerplants not used for extended twin-engined operations (ETOPS) flights.
The US FAA had already ordered removal and replacement of the main gearbox assembly on the engines as well as upgrade to the electronic engine control software on powerplants operating 120min or 180min ETOPS services.
But it is extending the requirement from 21 April to cover non-ETOPS engines.
The PW1100G is used on the Airbus A320neo family.
Orders to replace the parts follow “multiple” occurrences of in-flight shutdowns resulting from high-cycle fatigue, says the FAA, causing fracture of specific parts within the gearbox assembly.
For the non-ETOPS engines the FAA is ordering that the servicing be undertaken at the next engine shop visit.
