FAA Orders Engine Vibes Check After Takeoff Fiascos
Published Date: 1/22/2026
Rule
Summary
The FAA is rolling out new safety rules for certain CFM LEAP engines after spotting a problem that caused aborted takeoffs and emergency turns. Pilots and maintenance crews will need to check engine vibrations and inspect key parts regularly, replacing some worn components during the next shop visit. These changes kick in on February 26, 2026, helping keep flights safe without breaking the bank.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Every-50-Cycle NSV Monitoring Required
If your airplane has an affected CFM LEAP-1A engine, you must calculate non-synchronous vibration (NSV) within 50 flight cycles after February 26, 2026 and then at intervals not to exceed 50 flight cycles. If NSV exceeds specified thresholds, you must remove the identified No. 3 bearing spring finger housing within 25 or 5 flight cycles (as applicable) and inspect the stage 2 HPT nozzle assembly honeycomb and HPT stator stationary seal honeycomb.
Mandatory Replacement at Next Shop Visit
At the next shop visit after February 26, 2026, operators must replace any No. 3 bearing spring finger housing with part number 2629M62G01 and a serial number listed in Table 1 of the referenced CFM service bulletin with a part eligible for installation. That replacement also serves as terminating action for the repeated NSV calculations required by the AD.
Estimated Compliance and On‑Condition Costs
The FAA estimates per-engine costs: $85 to calculate NSV, $340 to inspect the stage 2 HPT nozzle assembly and HPT stator stationary seal, and $66,035 to replace the No. 3 bearing spring finger housing (17 work-hours plus $64,590 parts). The AD affects three engines on U.S. registry, giving an estimated total cost to U.S. operators of $198,105 for the mandatory housing replacements; on-condition replacements are estimated at $59,216 for a stage 2 HPT nozzle assembly honeycomb and $7,535 for an HPT stator stationary seal.
Prevents HPC Stall and Power Loss
The AD is intended to prevent high-pressure compressor (HPC) stall caused by high non-synchronous vibration (NSV) and wear on the No. 3 bearing spring finger housing. The FAA warns that, if not addressed, the condition could lead to engine power loss during takeoff or climb, loss of thrust control, reduced aircraft controllability, and possible loss of the airplane.
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