NTSB Issues Recommendation A-12-047 to FAA Regarding CF6-80C2 Engine Fire Risk

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has issued Recommendation A-12-047, designated as ENG12IA010, addressed directly to the Federal Aviation Administration. This recommendation urges the agency to issue an airworthiness directive that would require the incorporation of General Electric Aircraft Engines Service Bulletin 73-0242. The service bulletin is titled Fuel and Control – (73-00-00) – Spray Shields and Support Bracket – Improvement. The primary objective of this regulatory action is to prevent fires on CF6-80C2 engines. These fires can result from the misassembly of the two-piece support bracket and spray shield located on the front of the integrated drive generator fuel-oil heat exchanger. By mandating the use of this specific service bulletin, the NTSB aims to correct the assembly process and eliminate the identified safety hazard associated with these engine components.