AD FAA-2012-0228

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Pratt & Whitney Division PW4000-94" and PW4000-100" turbofan engines having a 1st stage high-pressure turbine (HPT) seal support, part number (P/N) 55K601 (contained within assembly P/N 55K602-01) or P/N 50K532 (contained within assembly P/N 50K530-01), installed. This AD was prompted by 58 reports of cracked 1st stage HPT air seal rings, including 15 in-flight engine shutdowns. This AD requires removal and replacement of the 1st stage HPT seal support and inspection of the 1st stage HPT air seal ring. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the 1st stage HPT air seal ring, which could lead to an internal oil fire, uncontained engine failure, and damage to the airplane.