Action
Final rule; request for comments.
Summary
We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2011-07-05 for certain Sicma Aero Seat 9140, 9166, 9173, 9174, 9184, 9188, 9196, 91B7, 91B8, 91C0, 91C2, 91C4, 91C5, and 9301 series passenger seat assemblies; and Sicma Aero Seat 9501311-05, 9501301-06, 9501311-15, 9501301-16, 9501441-30, 9501441-33, 9501311-55, 9501301-56, 9501441-83, 9501441-95, 9501311-97, and 9501301-98 passenger seat assemblies. AD 2011-07-05 required a general visual inspection for cracking of backrest links, replacement with new links if cracking is found, and eventual replacement of all links with new links. This new AD requires a new general visual inspection for cracking of backrest links, which includes new seat backrest links; replacement with new links if cracking is found; and eventual replacement of all links with new links. This AD was prompted by a report that new seat backrest links could be affected by cracks similar to those identified on the backrest links with the previous design. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracks in the backrest links, which could affect the structural integrity of seat backrests. Failure of the backrest links could result in injury to an occupant during emergency landing conditions.