EAST HARTFORD, CONNECTiCUT. The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an Airworthiness Directive requiring inspection of fan blades on the Pratt & Whitney PW4000-112” engines prior to their return to service.

The process requires the shipment of fan blades to Pratt & Whitney where Thermal Acoustic Imaging (TAI) inspection will be used to confirm airworthiness. The inspection is performed by Pratt & Whitney’s FAA-authorized repair station.

Pratt & Whitney powers approximately 125 Boeing 777 aircraft with its PW4000-112” engine. The directive applies only to the PW4000-112” model, and the fan blades that are unique to this engine type.

The company is coordinating all actions with Boeing, airline operators and regulators. The safe operation of the fleet is our top priority.

Pratt & Whitney commends the flight crew operating United Airlines flight 328 for their professionalism.
Further investigative updates regarding United Airlines flight 328 will be at the discretion of the NTSB.