Engine Trouble Causes Further A400M Delays

Ongoing engine problems will delay the A400M Atlas airlifter's entry into service, Airbus Military has announced.

The detection of metallic chips in the oil system of the Europrop International (EPI) TP400 turboprop means that civil type certification and military initial operational capability have shifted into the first quarter of 2013, the company confirmed in a press release on 31 August.

The delivery of the first aircraft to the French Air Force will now take place in the second quarter of 2013, while France’s second aircraft will also be subject to a slight delay. Delivery of MSN9 – the first Turkish Air Force example – and MSN10 – the third for France – will remain on schedule.

The company still plans to hand over four aircraft to customers next year, and other deliveries in 2014 and beyond are set to continue as planned.

According to Airbus Military, the engine problems have been caused by a cover plate, a mechanical piece isolating elements within the propeller gearbox. EPI has already re-designed the component, which is currently being validated. The same fault stopped the aircraft from participating in the Farnborough air show and the Royal International Air Tattoo in July.

EPI president Simon Henley said: 'We are working very hard to reduce the lead time on these replacements to allow Airbus Military to resume flight testing as soon as possible and continue series production as planned.'

According to Airbus Military, testing is continuing apace, with 3,700 hours completed in 1,250 flights.