US: PW4000 engine fires prompt FAA to propose engine checks

The FAA is preparing to require airlines to inspect fuel nozzles on some Pratt & Whitney PW4000 engines in response to several engine fires. The agency has written two proposed rules addressing the risk, including one that would require engines be inspected before further flights. The proposals mark the FAA's response to reports of fuel nozzle manifold cracks in some PW4000 engines, and to several instances of fuel leaks and PW4000 engine fires. The rule targets several PW4000 variants that power Airbus A300s, A330-200s and A330-300s. It applies to 186 engines in service with US airlines, though some 600 such engines are in service worldwide. American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, FedEx and UPS Airlines operate PW4000 variants named by the FAA.<br/>