Action
Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
Summary
We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A318, A319, and A321 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of in-flight loss of fixed and hinged main landing gear (MLG) fairings, and reports of post-modification MLG fixed fairing assemblies that have wear and corrosion. This proposed AD would require, for certain airplanes, repetitive replacements of the fixed fairing upper and lower attachment studs of both the right-hand (RH) and left-hand (LH) MLG; and repetitive inspections for corrosion, wear, fatigue, cracking, and loose studs of each forward stud assembly of the fixed fairing door upper and lower forward attachment of both RH and LH MLG; and replacement if necessary. This proposed AD also provides an optional terminating modification for the repetitive replacements of the fixed fairing upper and lower attachment studs. We are proposing this AD to prevent in-flight detachment of an MLG fixed fairing and consequent damage to the airplane.