FAA mandates V2500 high‑pressure compressor rotor blade replacement amid breakage risk
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration has ordered the replacement of rotor blades in the high‑pressure compressor of V2500 engines due to a breakage risk, affecting Airbus A319, A320, A321, McDonnell Douglas MD‑90 and Embraer C‑390 aircraft. The agency expects most airlines to opt for refurbished blades, which it estimates will cost $30,085 per set, compared with $225,000 for new blades. Lufthansa Technik says it only has enough new blades to meet demand and is facing a shortage of refurbished blades.1
The FAA has received reports of failed rotor blades that have caused engine fires, unplanned engine shutdowns and aborted takeoffs, prompting the mandatory replacement directive.1