Action
Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
Summary
We propose to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2004-03- 19, which applies to certain Airbus Model A320-111, -211, and -231 series airplanes. AD 2004-03-19 requires repetitive inspections for cracking in the transition and pick-up angles in the lower part of the center fuselage area, and corrective action if necessary. AD 2004-03-19 also provides for an optional terminating modification for the repetitive inspection requirements. Since we issued AD 2004-03-19, we have determined that the modification must be accomplished in order to address the unsafe condition. This proposed AD would also require that modification by installing washers between the transition pick-up angle and the pin nuts, and doing related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. This proposed AD would also add airplanes to the applicability. We are proposing this AD to prevent fatigue cracking in the transition and pick-up angles of the lower part of the center fuselage, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the wing-fuselage support and fuselage pressure vessel.