Action
Final rule.
Summary
The FAA is superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2011-07-02 for all Pratt & Whitney (P&W) JT8D-209, JT8D-217, JT8D-217A, JT8D-217C, and JT8D-219 model turbofan engines. AD 2011-07-02 required initial and repetitive torque inspections of the 3rd-stage and 4th-stage low- pressure turbine (LPT) blades. AD 2011-07-02 also required replacement of the LPT blade if wear limits are exceeded, replacement of the LPT- to-exhaust case bolts and nuts, and installation of crushable sleeve spacers on the bolts. This AD was prompted by a report of an MD-82 airplane, equipped with a JT8D-217C model turbofan engine, experiencing an engine surge that resulted in the fracture of the LPT blade and uncontained release of the LPT blade. This AD retains certain requirements of AD 2011-07-02, while revising the inspection thresholds and replacement intervals for the 3rd-stage and 4th-stage LPT blades. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.