Delta Air Lines Addresses Engine Part Scandal, Grounds Less Than 1% of Aircraft

Delta Air Lines (DL) has confirmed its involvement in the engine part scandal linked to unapproved components from a rogue supplier. Less than 1% of Delta’s aircraft were affected by the issue, leading the airline to promptly ground the impacted aircraft for part replacement.

The fraudulent documentation scandal involves engine parts for CFM International-manufactured engines, including the widely-used CFM56. The unapproved components were supplied by UK-based entity AOG Technics, acting as a components intermediary. Legal action has been initiated against AOG by CFM joint venture partners General Electric and Safran in the UK courts. The fraudulent parts have been identified on 126 aircraft, affecting multiple carriers, including American Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines.

While Delta did not disclose the specific parts impacted or the exact number of grounded aircraft, the airline emphasized that the affected engines were associated with less than 1% of its fleet. Delta currently operates 967 aircraft, and the affected engines are typically found on Boeing 737 NG and older Airbus A320 Family jets.

Delta released a statement acknowledging the situation: “Delta has been informed by one of our engine service providers that a small number of engines they overhauled for us contain certain parts that do not meet documentation requirements. Working with the overhaul provider, we are in the process of replacing those parts and remain in compliance with all FAA guidelines.”

The airline further assured that the affected aircraft were grounded as soon as the suspect parts were identified, with no impact on day-to-day flight operations. Delta’s swift response underscores its commitment to compliance and safety standards in addressing the fraudulent documentation issue.