FAA Orders Fixes After Engine Blades Cause Fires
Published Date: 1/12/2026
Rule
Summary
The FAA is making important safety fixes for certain International Aero Engines models after some fan blades broke and caused fires. Starting February 17, 2026, affected engines must have parts removed, replaced, and reinstalled to keep flights safe. This update helps prevent engine fires and keeps planes flying smoothly, with maintenance costs expected but worth the safety boost.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Stops engine fires from blade fractures
The FAA requires changes to certain International Aero Engines models after multiple fan blade fractures, three of which caused engine under-cowl or pool fires. The AD is intended to prevent a fuel leak from a fan blade fracture and avoid an uncontrolled engine fire or airplane damage, and is effective February 17, 2026.
Estimated per-engine and national compliance costs
The FAA estimates costs per engine: $765 to remove the loop cushion clamp, $26,095 to replace the TMS clevis mounts (labor $9,095 plus $17,000 parts), and $765 to reinstall the clamp. The FAA estimates this AD affects 586 U.S.-registered engines, with estimated costs to U.S. operators of $448,290 for clamp removal, $15,291,670 for clevis mount replacement, and $448,290 for clamp installation.
Required maintenance actions and timing
Beginning February 17, 2026, operators of affected IAE engine models must remove one loop cushion clamp (part number ST1540-06) within 30 days after the effective date or on installation, and must replace the thermal management system (TMS) clevis mounts with redesigned mounts at the next engine shop visit. Replacing the TMS clevis mounts (per PW ASB Issue No. 006) also requires reinstalling the loop cushion clamp and terminates the clamp-removal requirement.
Allows reuse of certain bolts if inspected
The FAA agreed to allow certain part-numbered bolts to be reused if they pass the specified inspections and procedures in the updated service material. The AD references PW Alert Service Bulletin PW1000G-C-72-00-0214-00A-930A-D, Issue No. 006, dated August 19, 2025, and provides credit for earlier ASB revisions.
Definition of 'engine shop visit' includes quick-turns
The AD defines an 'engine shop visit' as the induction of an engine into the shop for maintenance and states that quick-turn shop visits are considered engine shop visits for this rule. Operators may request an AMOC if they can justify an alternative approach.
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