GE Aerospace and Waygate Technologies Launch Automated Engine Inspection Templates

This article is based on an official press release from GE Aerospace and Waygate Technologies.

Waygate Technologies and GE Aerospace have announced the rollout of new automated inspection templates designed to standardize and accelerate the maintenance of critical aircraft engine components. The new Menu Directed Inspection (MDI) templates specifically target GEnx-1B and -2B engine borescope inspections, bringing a new level of automation to the process.

According to the official press release, the templates are integrated into Waygate Technologies’ Mentor Visual iQ+ video borescope. This development builds on a Joint Technology Development Agreement (JTDA) established between the two companies in 2023, which aims to enhance commercial engine inspections through artificial intelligence and advanced visual guidance.

By embedding guided workflows and AI assistance, the new tools are expected to reduce operator variability and ensure consistent, high-quality imaging during every assessment. We note that this move addresses broader industry challenges, including workforce training and the need for more efficient maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations.

Standardizing Engine Maintenance with AI

The newly deployed MDI templates are engineered to guide inspectors in capturing recommended views for High-Pressure Turbine (HPT) S1 and S2 blades. The press release notes that these guided workflows fully align with standard Aircraft Maintenance Manual tasks, ensuring compliance and accuracy.

To assist technicians, the system provides image overlays and representative images directly on the borescope screen. This visual guidance is paired with both automated and manual 3D measurement capabilities, allowing operators to assess line, area, depth, and profile metrics with greater precision.

“Together with Waygate Technologies, we’re further integrating automation and AI to help our operators drive more standardization, consistency, and efficiency with video borescope inspections for critical engine parts. These technologies are empowering our MRO workforce to work more productively, while raising the bar even higher on safety and quality,” stated Nicole Jenkins, Chief MRO Engineer at GE Aerospace, in the joint press release.

Enhancing Workflow and Workforce Enablement

Beyond visual guidance, the updated inspection tools offer significant improvements in data management and traceability. Automated image and video data labeling enriches the quality of inspection records, making it easier to track the health of engine components over time.

Connectivity is also a major focus of the new system. Inspectors can transition seamlessly between different inspection areas and store their results in real-time using Waygate Technologies’ InspectionWorks Insight cloud platform. According to the companies, this facilitates seamless data sharing and fleet optimization across MRO networks.

“We are excited to see the MDI Templates now available to our customers, providing a standardized approach to inspections and advancing the next phase of automation in engine maintenance,” said Michael Domke, General Manager Visual at Waygate Technologies.

AirPro News analysis

We view this deployment as a critical step in addressing the aviation industry’s ongoing labor shortages and the increasing complexity of modern aircraft engines. By reducing the learning curve for new technicians through clear visual guidance, MRO providers can scale their operations more effectively.

Furthermore, the integration of cloud-based data sharing and AI-assisted measurements aligns with a broader industry trend toward predictive maintenance. As GE Aerospace supports an installed base of approximately 50,000 commercial and 30,000 military aircraft engines, standardizing inspection data across such a massive fleet could yield significant long-term reliability improvements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What engines are compatible with the new MDI templates?

The new automated Menu Directed Inspection templates are currently designed for GEnx-1B and -2B engine borescope inspections.

When did the partnership between GE Aerospace and Waygate Technologies begin?

The two companies have been collaborating under a Joint Technology Development Agreement (JTDA) since 2023.

What specific engine parts do the templates inspect?

The templates guide inspectors in achieving recommended views for High-Pressure Turbine (HPT) S1 and S2 blades.

Sources

• GE Aerospace