Ryanair Addresses Fake Engine Parts in Routine Checks

Ryanair has revealed the discovery and replacement of unauthorized engine parts in two of its aircraft during routine inspections. The parts, suspected to be supplied by UK-based AOG Technics, were identified several months ago during checks in Brazil and the United States. Ryanair’s CEO, Michael O’Leary, stated that the issue involved certain CFM56 engines manufactured by CFM International, impacting several Boeing B737NG and Airbus A320ceo family aircraft.

AOG Technics has faced scrutiny for selling parts with falsified Authorized Release Certificates (ARCs), as revealed by the European Aviation Safety Agency in August. While the problem has affected multiple airlines globally, O’Leary emphasized that Ryanair had been “largely unaffected” by the issue, having never engaged with AOG Technics.

The two affected engines are currently in workshops, with the relevant parts forwarded to investigators examining AOG Technics. O’Leary called for stricter controls over third-party suppliers in light of this incident. Other airlines, including Southwest Airlines, TUI Airways, TAP Portugal, and Virgin Australia, have also temporarily grounded aircraft to address the problem. Ryanair operates over 500 Boeing B737NG aircraft.