US MRO specialist West Star Aviation will complete the Williams International Service Bulletin (WISB-72.1023) to repair the intermediate pressure compressor rotor repair at its St Louis Regional airport facility in East Alton, Illinois in October 2022, the first being completed in mid August 2022.

Due to a machining issue during manufacturing, as the rotor ages it can induce cracking and blade displacement and a small number of FJ44-4A engines have had this occur. Blade loss in this manner can result in noise, vibration or a change in the operating parameters of the engine. The manufacturer's Service Bulletin recommends replacement of this rotor at next MPI and can be completed on-wing at a Williams-authorised Line Maintenance Elite service centre.

West Star is one of only three source locations in the United States and only five in the world where this repair can be completed. In-depth training along with the purchase of specialised tooling allows West Star Aviation to offer this service to its Citation customers. The downtime for the rotor change is approximately five days, depending on outgoing vibration tests and any other scheduled maintenance performed.

“We were approached by Williams International through a joint venture and are pleased to be able to offer this special service to our valued customers that are looking for a facility to complete the repair,” says programme manager Pat Welch.