Summary
The FAA proposes to supersede an existing airworthiness directive (AD) for GE CF6-80A1/A3 and CF6-80C2A series turbofan engines. That AD currently requires one of the following before further flight:
Performing a directional pilot valve (DPV) pressure check for leakage, and, if necessary, replacing the DPV assembly with a serviceable assembly, or
Replacing the DPV assembly with a serviceable assembly, or
Deactivating the thrust reverser, and revising the FAA-approved airplane flight manual (AFM) to require applying performance penalties for certain takeoff conditions if a thrust reverser is deactivated.
That AD also requires revising the Emergency Procedures Section of the FAA-approved AFM to include a flight crew operational procedure in the event of any indication of an in-flight thrust reverser deployment. This proposed AD would require the same requirements for leak checks, but would increase the interval between required checks. This proposed AD would also remove the requirement to revise the Limitations Section and the Emergency Procedures Section of the applicable AFM when deactivating one or both thrust reversers. This proposed AD results from revisions to the manufacturer's alert service bulletins (ASBs). We are proposing this AD to prevent inadvertent thrust reverser deployment, which, if it occurs in-flight, could result in loss of control of the airplane.