GE Aerospace has begun rolling out a new AI-enabled inspection tool designed to improve accuracy and consistency in assessing key components of narrow-body aircraft engines. By streamlining the inspection process, this technology aims to return engines to service more quickly amid increasing air travel demand.
The AI-enabled blade inspection tool assists trained technicians in capturing images of turbine blades, which generate much of an engine's thrust. The AI then helps technicians identify which images to review, ensuring greater consistency in spotting potential issues while reducing inspection times by 50%.
The tool is being deployed across more than a dozen GE Aerospace MRO facilities, as well as to customers servicing the CFM LEAP engine. It has already been in use for three years on the GEnx wide-body aircraft engine, where it has demonstrated significant improvements in inspection speed and accuracy compared to traditional borescope methods.
GE Aerospace is investing over US$1 billion in its MRO shops over the next five years as part of its commitment to supporting customers and enhancing aviation safety. The company has been integrating AI into its operations for over a decade and holds numerous AI patents within the aviation industry. Its AI applications range from engine monitoring and part inspections to predictive maintenance insights. To ensure responsible AI use, GE Aerospace adheres to strict guidelines emphasising human oversight, data integrity and transparency.
