Turbofan bird ingestion

[Capt Claret]

barit1

Having taken the opportunity to accompany the flying spanner when he conducted an inspection at a remote port after an ingestion in a LF507, I was able to see with my own eyes the grey, putty like residue, of several birds, weeping from the bleed band, which was a serious indicator that the bird/s had travelled through the compressor, and consequently caused some damage.

Result: 3 engine ferry.

[lomapaseo]

Originally Posted by woptb

If a ingestion is suspected particularly if any other indications are apparent,return. An incipient failure may occur,surge margins might be reduced,perhaps only becoming apparent at an increased flight level.
Flying with an engine that 'may' be about to fail is not ideal,you may also prevent further damage to an 'extremely' expensive engine which could necessitate replacement,unprogrammed downtime & a potentially pricey QEC rework.

The key to this action is

if any other indications are apparent,return

There are inherent risks in any action that the pilot chooses, to return to land or continue (his call). However, the recommendations for decision making based on available information are provided by the manufacturer based on their specific knowledge and collective experience.

It is very unwise for pilots to share old wifes tales without benefit of credibility as to source or relationship to the manufacturer's recommendations.

There are established data to assess the risks for an unexpected return to land, diversion etc. Comparing these with what ifs, or one off rumors is best done by those with the credible data and knowledge and embodied in the operational recomendations.

[TURIN]

BARIT1

That was my reaction too until I was shown the evidence.

[barit1]

Capt Claret & Turin - thanks for the feedback. Can't beat hard evidence!