What is the powdered metal issue that might get over 30 IndiGo planes grounded?

IndiGo, India's largest airline, is facing a significant challenge as it grapples with the possibility of grounding over 30 aircraft. The issue stems from problems related to the use of powdered metal components in their Pratt & Whitney-powered fleet.

This development comes after Pratt & Whitney, the US-based aircraft engine manufacturer, provided additional information on the issue.

According to Reuters, this hiccup has added to the grounding of another 40 aircraft due to preexisting problems.

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P&W and IndiGo

• IndiGo's ongoing trouble has been caused by the powdered metal issue, specifically with the PW1000G engines, also known as the GTF engines.
• As a result, the airline anticipates grounding around 40 of its aircraft, mostly of the Airbus A320 family (A320neo s), to fix the problems.

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• Approximately 40% of IndiGo's fleet is powered by P&W engines.
• Earlier this year, in July, P&W had to recall 1,200 of its 3,000 GTF engines, and this process is expected to continue into 2024 as well.
• The recall had a crucial impact on global aviation as many Airbus narrowbodies and Embraer jets like E190 were powered by the same engine.

IndiGo had previously faced issues related to P&W engines in 2019, with the PW1100G and PW1500G engines.

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What is the powdered metal issue?

• The powdered metal issue has affected airlines globally, beyond IndiGo.
• It all started when metal particles used in manufacturing were found to be contaminating other engine parts, without getting into hardcore metallurgy.
• The powdered metals, basically are tiny particles of metals, used in metallurgy to give strength, have a desired shape and shed some weight from manufacturing of a component.
• Experts say that contamination can potentially cause cracks in other affected engine components, leading to potential operational and safety issues.
• Thankfully, the manufacturer recalled the said engines, earlier than anticipated, however, the stall challenged carriers globally to stay put.
• According to P&W, the overhaul would cost them a huge sum of money, with a large chunk going towards compensation to airlines.

The recall of Pratt & Whitney's engines has undoubtedly tarnished its image as a trusted supplier of reliable large commercial engines.

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