Rolls-Royce to boost scheme to install redesigned jet engine blades
Latest setback for engines used on Boeing 787 Dreamliner jets comes after UK firm sampled a small number of the global fleet
London — Rolls-Royce Holdings said it will accelerate a programme to install redesigned blades on some of its Trent 1000 engines, after early wear forced Singapore Airlines to ground two 787 aircraft using the turbines. The latest setback for the Trent 1000 TEN, used on Boeing 787 Dreamliner jets, came after the UK enginemaker sampled a small number of the global fleet that had “flown in more arduous conditions”, Rolls said on Tuesday. The company said it will work closely with customers that are affected as it tests “an enhanced version of this blade”. A Rolls spokesman did not say how many aircraft are affected, identify other customers or give details of the blades’ shortened life. The company said in February that about 35 Dreamliners remained grounded and that it aimed to reduce that number to about 10 by the end of 2019. Design glitches Design glitches have plagued the Trent programme since 2016, leading to about $1.7bn in charges, while eating into Rolls-Royce’s share of turb...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.