Pratt & Whitney Uses AI for Enhanced Engine Inspections

East Hartford, Connecticut – Pratt & Whitney, a business of RTX, is enhancing its engine inspection capabilities with AI-assisted borescope software following the acquisition and integration of Amsterdam-based Aiir Innovations. This technology represents a significant advancement in how inspections are performed, aiming to strengthen consistency and efficiency across global maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations for commercial, civil, and military engines.

According to Rob Griffiths, senior vice president of Commercial Engines Operations at Pratt & Whitney, the integration of AI-assisted inspection capabilities "strengthens our ability to detect issues earlier, improve turnaround times, increase time on wing and reduce operational disruption for our customers." He stated that the technology is expected to fundamentally reshape how engines and components are inspected, maintained, and supported throughout their lifecycle.

The software utilizes artificial intelligence to analyze borescope video, providing faster and more repeatable assessments for inspectors. It has already been deployed to commercial customers and MRO providers, reportedly reducing inspection times significantly. Pratt & Whitney has applied the technology to its V2500 engine and recently completed pilot programs on the GTF and F135 engines, with plans for broader company-wide expansion.

By adapting to inspector feedback over time, the AI technology becomes more accurate and aligned with real-world expertise. It also offers configurable reporting, enabling processes that once took substantial time to be completed more quickly with improved quality, consistency, traceability, and accuracy. Pratt & Whitney operates as a key component of RTX, a global technology company focused on aviation and defense.