FAA Requires Turbine Blade Checks on CFM LEAP Engines
Published Date: 7/10/2026
Rule
Summary
The FAA is updating safety rules for certain CFM LEAP engines because some turbine blades wear out faster, especially in South Asia. Pilots and airlines must do regular blade inspections and replace parts if needed to keep flights safe. These new rules start July 27, 2026, and could mean more frequent checks and some extra costs for engine owners.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory blade inspections for certain LEAP engines
If you operate certain CFM LEAP-1A engines with affected high‑pressure turbine (HPT) rotor stage 1 blades, you must do initial borescope inspections (BSIs) and repeat them on a schedule. The rule applies when a blade has accumulated more than 1,100 South Asia takeoffs (South Asia = Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka) and either 2,500 part cycles since new (PCSN) for Group 1 engines or 5,100 PCSN for Group 2 engines; do an initial BSI within 100 flight cycles after the 1,100 South Asia takeoffs or within 100 flight cycles after July 27, 2026 (whichever is later), then repeat every ≤150 flight cycles for Group 1 or ≤300 flight cycles for Group 2, with required re‑inspection or replacement actions based on inspection results.
Per‑engine inspection and replacement cost estimates
The FAA estimates a borescope inspection (BSI) costs $340 per engine (4 work‑hours at $85/hour). If replacement of the HPT rotor stage 1 blades is required, the FAA's estimate shows labor $12,750 (150 work‑hours x $85/hour) plus parts $988,200 for a total cost per engine of $1,000,950. The FAA also estimates this AD affects 0 operators of U.S.-registered airplanes meeting the AD applicability criteria.
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