FAA Issues GTF Engine Inspection Directive Affecting 700 A320neo Aircraft

The FAA issued an Airworthiness Directive requiring inspection of Pratt & Whitney GTF engines on approximately 700 Airbus A320neo family aircraft following discovery of manufacturing irregularities in high-pressure turbine components.

Affected operators must complete inspections within 90 days, with some aircraft requiring immediate grounding pending compliance.

Operational Impact

Spirit Airlines and Frontier reported the largest exposure among U.S. carriers, with both airlines adjusting summer schedules to accommodate inspection requirements. International operators including IndiGo and Wizz Air face similar challenges.

Engine Availability

Pratt & Whitney has increased spare engine production but acknowledged that shop visit capacity remains constrained. Airlines expect elevated aircraft-on-ground rates through Q2 as inspections progress across the global fleet.