On December 20, 2024, the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) issued a fleet bulletin directing the inspection of the V-22 Osprey’s Proprotor Gearboxes (PRGB) to verify the flight hours on each unit prior to the aircraft’s next flight.
The bulletin is part of ongoing efforts to ensure safety and operational integrity for the V-22 fleet.
Aircraft with PRGBs that meet or exceed a predetermined flight-hour threshold will resume flights according to the flight controls established in the March 2024 interim flight clearance (IFC).
For aircraft with PRGBs below the threshold, a new IFC has been issued, implementing additional risk mitigation controls. These controls will remain in place until the PRGBs are upgraded or the flight-hour threshold is exceeded.
NAVAIR worked in collaboration with the Navy, Air Force Special Operations Command, and the Marine Corps to issue the bulletin and the updated IFC. However, specific details regarding the flight-hour threshold, the number of affected aircraft, and the additional flight controls will not be disclosed due to operational security concerns.
NAVAIR reassured the public of its commitment to safety and transparency, stating: “NAVAIR remains committed to transparency and safety regarding all V-22 operations. The V-22 plays an integral role in supporting our nation’s defense. Returning these vital assets to flight is critical to supporting our nation’s interests.”
As part of its ongoing commitment, NAVAIR continuously monitors data and trends from all aircraft platforms to ensure that service members operate the safest and most reliable aircraft possible.
For those who want the Osprey in UK, be careful what you wish for, we can’t afford to lose any member of the Armed Forces to accidents with these machines, and the Americans will be behind us with those sentiments.
Merry Christmas everyone.