FAA Orders Software Fix for High-Power Jet Engines
Published Date: 4/16/2025
Rule
Summary
If you fly planes with General Electric GE90-110B1 or GE90-115B engines, listen up! The FAA is updating rules to keep these engines safer by requiring a software upgrade and keeping previous safety checks in place. This means some new steps and possible costs, but it helps prevent engine problems and keeps flights smooth and safe.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 2 mixed.
EEC FADEC Software Upgrade Required
If your airplane uses General Electric Model GE90-110B1 or GE90-115B engines, the FAA now requires upgrading the electronic engine control (EEC) full authority digital engine control (FADEC) software to a version eligible for installation as a terminating action. This AD supersedes AD 2020-20-17 and AD 2021-15-05 and adds the software upgrade while keeping prior requirements in place.
Dispatch Ban and MEL Revision Remain
The AD keeps the rule from AD 2020-20-17 that prohibits dispatch of an airplane if certain engine status messages appear on the engine indicating and crew alerting system (EICAS). It also continues the requirement to revise the FAA-approved minimum equipment list (MEL) to incorporate those dispatch restrictions.
FADEC MN4 Microprocessor Replacement Continues
The AD retains the AD 2021-15-05 requirement for initial and repetitive replacement of the FADEC integrated circuit (MN4) microprocessor for GE90-110B1 and GE90-115B engines. Operators must keep performing those replacement actions as part of compliance.
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