A method and control for predicting the remaining useful life of an airfoil for a gas turbine engine includes the steps of monitoring conditions of the blade such as flutter, leaning, etc. A measured amount of deflection of the airfoil is compared to tabulated data to predict an expected crack length which is likely causing the deflection, etc. Once a predicted crack length has been identified, the amount of accumulated damage to the airfoil at the crack is monitored and stored. The amount of useful life for the blade can be predicted by compiling the accumulated damage over time. The useful life remaining can be displayed such that flight plans or maintenance schedules for the aircraft can be modified as appropriate.