Introduction
The Aircraft Maintenance Log (AML) indicates that the take-off power of the #1 and #2 engines was applied; however, the #1 engine failed to reach the selected take-off EPR due to reaching its max EGT, resulting in the aborted take-off of a large twin-engine commercial aircraft. The aircraft returned to the gate after both engines returned to idle power. This report details the actions taken to return the aircraft to service, the logic behind them, any relevant documents used, and any necessary safety precautions.
Background
A twin-engine commercial aircraft has two engines, usually turbofan engines. These engines provide thrust during flight and power for take-off and landing (www.sciencedirect.com, n.d.). The engines must provide enough power to maintain a certain speed during take-off, known as the selected take-off Engine Pressure Ratio (EPR) (Hall, 2015). The EPR is the engine pressure ratio to ambient pressure at a given engine speed. If the engine does not reach the desired EPR, the aircraft may experience a dangerously high Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) (www.sciencedirect.com, n.d.). The crew, in this case, aborted the take-off and returned the aircraft to the gate.
Statement of Problem
Following an aborted take-off, a large twin-engine commercial aircraft was returned to the gate by the Aircraft team. “On application of take-off power on #1 and #2 engines, the #1 engine failed to reach the selected take-off EPR due to experiencing max EGT,” according to the crew entry in the Aircraft Maintenance Log (AML). Both engines returned to idle power, the take-off was aborted, and the aircraft returned to the gate”.
Actions Taken
The steps taken to return the aircraft to service are detailed below.
Engine Inspection
The first step in getting the plane back in the air was to inspect both engines.
The aircraft team inspected for overheating, wear and tear, and any signs of fuel or oil leaks to ensure that the aborted take-off had not caused any damage. They used the Aircraft Maintenance Log (AML) and other relevant documents for the inspection. Any parts discovered damaged or showing signs of wear and tear were replaced with new components by the aircraft team.
Engine Testing
It entailed inspecting the engine’s components and systems, such as hoses, lines, filters, and spark plugs, for debris or damage. In addition, the Aircraft Maintenance Log (AML) and any other relevant documents were reviewed by the aircraft team to ensure that all required maintenance and repair checks were completed.
Repair
The aircraft group tested the engines to ensure they were in good working order, with the help of the Aircraft Maintenance Log (AML) and other relevant documents. The tests included engine performance measurements, power output, and other relevant parameters. In addition, the engines were tested at various speeds and pressures to ensure they were working correctly. The aircraft team then compared the results of the tests to the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure that the engines were operating correctly.
Validation and Testing
Following the repairs and adjustments, the aircraft was tested and verified to ensure it was operating correctly. Thoroughly examining the aircraft’s systems and engine performance on the ground and in flight was part of the process. The parameters for the regular operation had to be met for the plane to be deemed safe for flight. Following the repairs and adjustments, the Aircraft Maintenance Log (AML), Manufacturer’s Service Bulletins (MSB), and other relevant documents were updated and reviewed to ensure accuracy and completeness. This documentation was verified and signed off on to ensure that all repairs and adjustments were adequately documented.
Documentation
Following the repairs and adjustments, the aircraft was tested and verified to ensure it was operating correctly. During this evaluation, the aircraft group performed ground and air checks to ensure that the aircraft systems and engine performance were within normal operating parameters. The specialized team conducted a thorough documentation review to ensure the aircraft was safe.
The process included checking the accuracy and completeness of the Aircraft Maintenance Log (AML), Manufacturer’s Service Bulletins (MSB), and other relevant documents. After the testing validated the aircraft, the aircraft was declared ready for service, and the documents were reviewed and verified.
The logic for Performing Actions and the Relevant Documents Used
The logic for carrying out the steps outlined above was based on the applicable regulations, the manufacturer’s instructions, and the manufacturer’s service bulletins. It was also based on the need to identify and correct any problems that may have caused the failed take-off.
The Aircraft Maintenance Log (AML), Manufacturer’s Service Bulletins (MSB), and any other applicable documents were used while returning the aircraft to service.
Relevant Safety Precautions
Safety precautions must be taken when returning an aircraft to service after an aborted take-off. Throughout the process, the aircraft team should wear protective clothing such as gloves and goggles, and any tools and equipment used should be in good working order (www.skybrary.aero, n.d.). A specialized team should work in a clean, well-lit area free of debris and other potential hazards.
Furthermore, all adjustments or repairs must follow the manufacturer’s instructions or the applicable regulations. The team must follow proper procedures, and the maintenance aircraft team must use the right parts to ensure the aircraft’s and passengers’ safety. To ensure that the engines work correctly, they should be tested by the aircraft maintenance team. Examining their power output and performance, as well as any other relevant assessments (Appendix 6.2 -Aircraft Refuelling Procedure, n.d.). Furthermore, the engines should be tested at various speeds and pressures to ensure proper operation.
If there is any damage or signs of wear and tear, the maintenance team must replace the machine with a new one. The team must use the same procedures as the original engine, and only parts approved by the manufacturer should be used (Schwebel, Goetz & Sieben, 2018). Ensuring the aircraft’s safety and optimal performance is essential. It is critical to ensure that all aircraft engines are thoroughly tested.
The specialized aircraft team should perform inspections to ensure the engines operate correctly and produce the expected power output, which is critical for ensuring their performance and safety. Furthermore, the engines should be tested at various speeds and pressures to ensure they work perfectly (Appendix 6.2 -Aircraft Refuelling Procedure, n.d.). It ensures the aircraft’s safety and optimal operation. If either engine is damaged or showing signs of wear and tear, it should be replaced, and only manufacturer-approved parts should be used (Schwebel, Goetz & Sieben, 2018).
Conclusion
Finally, this report outlined the steps to return the aircraft to service after an aborted take-off. The logic for carrying out the measures was based on the applicable regulations’ requirements, the manufacturer’s instructions, and the manufacturer’s service bulletins. The Aircraft Maintenance Log (AML), Manufacturer’s Service Bulletins (MSB), and any other applicable documents were used while returning the aircraft to service. While returning the aircraft to service, relevant safety precautions included using protective clothing, appropriate tools, and approved test equipment.
Reference List
Appendix 6.2 -Aircraft Refuelling Procedure. (n.d.). Web.
Hall, N. (2015). Turbofan Engine. [online] Nasa.gov. Web.
Schwebel, Goetz & Sieben. (2018). Top 10 Airline Safety Tips. [online] Web.
www.sciencedirect.com. (n.d.). Twin-Engine Aircraft – an overview | ScienceDirect Topics. [online] Web.
www.skybrary.aero. (n.d.). Rejected Take Off | SKYbrary Aviation Safety. [online] Web.