The US Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) has confirmed the lift of its safety pause on some T-45C Goshawk jet trainers.
The temporary halt order on US Navy and US Marine Corps T-45Cs was issued on October 14, starting an investigation and review following an engine blade failure.
According to NAVAIR, experts found that a subset of blades does not match the latest engine specifications set by the manufacturer.
The T-45Cs with the issue remain grounded, while units that met the specifications were returned to operations.
“The process of returning to operations is based off engineering analysis by NAVAIR, with the most important decision being the safety of our aviators,” explained Rear Adm. Richard Brophy, Chief of Naval Air Training.
“The aircraft we are flying are verified and known-good. We have the highest confidence in the compliance of these aircraft.”
US Naval Air Training Safety
The T-45C evaluations will proceed in collaboration with Rolls-Royce to return additional units to operational status.
Meanwhile, aviators who work with the affected T-45Cs are conducting lectures, simulations, and computer-based sessions to maximize ground training.
“While the reintroduction of the T-45C fleet will be a staggered approach, it is not a process that will be rushed,” Brophy said.
“Safety of our student aviators and instructors is paramount,” Rear Adm. John Lemmon added.
“Our Navy teams and industry partner are diligently and thoroughly analyzing all facets of this issue to determine a safe and expeditious way forward for the rest of the T-45 fleet to return to flight.”