Older jet engines must now be inspected for cracks, or be replaced
What happened
US aviation regulators want to require inspections for certain General Electric jet engines. This means airlines will have to check for cracks in the combustion chamber assembly and replace parts if needed.
Why it matters
Airlines operate on tight margins. Unexpected maintenance requirements can force them to ground planes, which costs money. This proposed rule targets a specific set of engines, meaning operators of those planes will face new costs and potential disruptions.
The signal
Watch for public comments from airlines and engine operators about the cost and feasibility of these inspections, and whether the FAA adjusts the final rule based on their feedback.