Dallas Airmotive has expanded its PW305 capabilities at the company's Regional Turbine Center (RTC) located at Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL) in Dallas, Texas. The latest addition is the tooling and equipment to perform IBR (Integrally Bladed Rotor) replacement on the PW305A used on Learjet 60 aircraft. The first two engines to receive this replacement were completed in April.

"We knew that Pratt & Whitney Canada would introduce a new IBR for the 305A this year, so we prepared for this event last year by expanding the facility and purchasing the necessary tooling and equipment," stated Dallas Airmotive Vice President Customer Service and Global Regional Turbine Center Operations, Mike Cumnock. "As soon as the new IBR became available we were ready and have now finished our first engines with more scheduled for the rest of 2009."

Replacement of the PW305A IBR eliminates the need for inspection every 300 hours as required for the original units.

"When we received PW305 authorization from Pratt & Whitney Canada in 2004, we immediately set up the Love Field RTC for Hot Section Inspection (HSI) and quick turn service," added Cumnock.

"By doing so, our main overhaul center in Dallas could focus on major repairs and overhauls. At the RTC we've driven down Hot Section Inspection turn times to under 14 calendar days. And now, with the new equipment, we can replace the IBR separately or in conjunction with the HSI."

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