(Nov 28): Airbus SE is restricting operations in particularly cold weather conditions for some of its narrowbody aircraft that are powered by Pratt & Whitney engines.
The European planemaker has informed airlines of modifications on existing procedures for engine operations on the ground in icing conditions, according to an Airbus spokeswoman. As a result, there are restrictions for takeoffs with the Pratt & Whitney engines in bad weather conditions with freezing fog and visibility of less than 150 metres (490 feet).
Airbus said it is in close exchange with airline customers and Pratt & Whitney is working on a solution. Pratt & Whitney did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The requirement was earlier reported by aviation trade publication Aerotelegraph.
The restrictions impact single-aisle A320 aircraft which use PW1100 GTF engines, and airlines like Air Astana, Kazakhstan’s national carrier, had to delay several flights operated by those planes due to freezing fog, Aerotelegraph reported on Friday.
Ice forming in flight can be dangerous and has been the cause of several aviation accidents. Icing can disrupt airflow over the wings and create drag or impact the amount of thrust an engine can generate.
See also: India plans more incentives for aircraft leasing in tax oasis — Bloomberg
Pratt, a unit of RTX Corp, has previously faced issues with contaminated metal powder in its GTF geared turbofan engines, which has forced airlines around the world to temporarily ground some of their A320-family fleet while the components are being replaced.
The US manufacturer is working to overcome the delays in repairing the affected engines and certifying an enhanced version of the product.
Uploaded by Magessan Varatharaja
