Module 15 Gas Turbine Engine
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ExploreAbout this exam
Module 15, Gas Turbine Engine, is one of the knowledge modules in the EASA Part-66 aircraft maintenance licence syllabus. It is aimed at candidates working toward a turbine-engine rating or a Category B1/B2/B3 licence, and at certifying staff who need to show they understand how a gas turbine engine and its systems actually function before they sign anything off. The module moves from fundamentals - thermodynamics, thrust, engine layouts and station numbering - through the compressor, combustion section, turbine, exhaust and thrust reversers, then into the supporting systems: bearings, seals and lubrication, fuel metering and FADEC, air systems, starting and ignition, and indication and monitoring. Questions are multiple choice and tend to test understanding rather than recall of a single number: why a compressor surges, what a bleed valve does to surge margin, why EGT is the limiting parameter. Preparation works best as a structured pass through the syllabus with a turbine engine textbook and the manufacturer's descriptions alongside, then question practice to expose weak areas. The official body publishes current details of the examination, so check its website for the applicable figure rather than relying on second-hand information. This page is independent study material and is not affiliated with, or endorsed by, any licensing authority.
What you'll study
About Module 15 Gas Turbine Engine preparation
What format is the Module 15 exam?
It is a multiple-choice examination, delivered as part of the Part-66 knowledge modules. The number of questions, the time allowed and the pass mark are set by the licensing authority, which publishes the current figures on its website. Confirm the details for your authority and category before you book.
How difficult is Module 15 compared with other modules?
It is usually considered one of the heavier modules because it is systems-dense: compressor aerodynamics, turbine cooling and fuel control all reward genuine understanding. Candidates with hands-on engine experience find it manageable; those learning purely from notes often struggle with the 'why' questions rather than the 'what' questions.
Can I retake the exam if I fail?
Retakes are normally permitted, but the rules on waiting periods, the number of attempts and how results are recorded vary by authority. The official body publishes the current policy, so check its site rather than assuming a fixed number of attempts or a fixed interval between sittings.
How long should I allow to prepare?
Most candidates need several weeks of part-time study rather than a few days. Work through the syllabus in order, spend extra time on compressor stall/surge and fuel metering, then move to timed question practice. Track which domains you get wrong repeatedly and revisit those chapters instead of re-reading everything.
In what order should I study the domains?
Start with fundamentals, because station numbering and the thrust equation underpin everything else. Then work through the gas path in order - inlet and compressor, combustion, turbine, exhaust - before the supporting systems: lubrication, fuel, air, starting and ignition, then indication and monitoring. That sequence makes later chapters feel like revision.
What are the most common failure modes?
Confusing pressure and velocity changes through a compressor stage, muddling surge with stall, and not knowing which parameter limits a given rating. Another frequent weakness is fuel system architecture - what the FADEC commands versus what the hydro-mechanical unit actually meters. Learn the function of each component, not just its name.
Do I need to memorise engine-specific figures?
No. The exam tests principles and system function, not the pressure ratio of a particular engine. Understand trends - what happens to EGT, thrust and surge margin as conditions change - rather than memorising numbers that differ between engine types. Use a generic turbine engine textbook as your backbone.
How is Module 15 assessed alongside the other modules?
Each knowledge module is examined separately, and the results contribute to the experience and knowledge requirements for the licence you are applying for. The authority sets how results are combined and how long they remain valid, so consult its published requirements for your specific category.
Is this page an official source?
No. This is independent study material written for candidates preparing for the module. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any licensing authority or training organisation. Always treat the official syllabus and the authority's published examination details as the authoritative reference.