FAA Issues AD for Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 Engines

‍DALLAS — The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a new Airworthiness Directive (AD 2024-25-10) concerning Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG Trent XWB-97 engines. 

Effective February 18, 2025, this AD mandates compliance with measures to address a critical safety issue.

The AD was prompted by reports of damage to the main fuel hose assembly within the fuel manifold, which led to an in-flight engine shutdown. 

If not addressed, this issue could cause a temporary engine fire, heat damage to engine components, and, under certain conditions, escalate into a more severe engine fire, potentially damaging the aircraft structurally.

Applicability, Required Actions

The directive applies to Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97, a high-thrust, advanced turbofan engine specifically designed for the Airbus A350-1000 and A350F aircraft. The model is a long-haul, wide-body jetliner commonly operated by international airlines for high-capacity, long-range routes.

The AD references European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Emergency AD 2024-0174-E, issued on September 5, 2024.

Operators must comply with the required actions and timelines set forth by EASA AD 2024-0174-E. These include:

• Inspection and Maintenance: Assess the fuel hose assembly for potential damage and wear.
• Component Replacement: Implement necessary replacements to prevent future failures.
• Ongoing Compliance: Operators must integrate the AD’s requirements into their maintenance schedules.

Operators may request alternative methods of compliance (AMOCs) through the FAA’s Continued Operational Safety Branch. 

Exceptions to EASA Requirements

The FAA directive specifies that:

1. Any references to EASA AD’s effective date must be replaced with the effective date of the FAA directive (February 18, 2025).
2. The "Remarks" section of the EASA AD has not been adopted in the FAA version.

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