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    Prabhu seeks DGCA report on grounding

    Synopsis

    DGCA follows reports that seven such aircraft belonging to low-cost carrier IndiGo have been kept out of service due to unavailability of spare engines.

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    The minister sought a report from the DGCA after reports that seven IndiGo Airbus 320 (neos) were grounded due to unavailability of spare engines.
    Civil aviation minister Suresh Prabhu has sought a report from the sector regulator on grounding of some Airbus 320-Neo aircraft and issues they are facing regarding spares.

    The directive to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) follows reports that seven such aircraft belonging to low-cost carrier IndiGo have been kept out of service due to unavailability of spare engines.

    In a statement issued on Friday, Prabhu said, “Security of passengers is of paramount importance and should not be compromised at any cost.” As per DGCA, 60 A320 Neos have Pratt & Whitney engines (41with IndiGo and 19 with GoAir), the statement said.

    “As on date, 7 with Indigo and 2 with Go Air are on ground. These groundings are due to combustor distress found during scheduled boroscope inspection. These are all Block B combustors.

    As and when combustor distress is found beyond laid down limits, aircraft is removed from service for engine replacement,” it said. “A320 Neos inducted after March 2018 are coming with P&W engines fitted with Block C combustors, which has better life. Engines coming from shop are also fitted with Block C combustors.”

    DGCA has also informed the minister that the manufacturer (P&W) has taken measures to address significant problems of engines related to combustion chambers distress and No 3 bearing issues by replacing Block B combustion chambers with Block C and providing dry face bearing seals.

    These have significantly reduced engine problems, the statement said.

    The regulator has also informed the ministry that there are no safety concerns with the engines and distress is found during routine scheduled boro scope inspections of these engines.

    “These engines are being continuously monitored and safety issues are addressed adequately. DGCA and airlines remain in touch with the manufacturer on the issue. No additional measure is required to be taken,” the statement added.


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    ( Originally published on Aug 24, 2018 )
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