Action
Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
Summary
We propose to supersede airworthiness directive (AD) 2009-20- 05 that applies to certain Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. AD 2009-20-05 requires one-time inspections for cracking, damage, correct installation, and correct adjustment of the main landing gear (MLG) door hinge and actuator fittings on the keel beam, and corrective actions if necessary. Since we issued AD 2009-20-05, we have received reports of cracks on fittings that had successfully passed the required inspections. This proposed AD would expand the applicability, reduce the compliance time, and require repetitive inspections instead of the one-time inspection. This proposed AD would also require revising the maintenance or inspection program to remove a certain airworthiness limitations item (ALI) task. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct such cracking, which could lead to in- flight detachment of an MLG door, possibly resulting in injury to persons on the ground and/or damage to the airplane.