Action
Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
Summary
We propose to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2012-12- 12, for all Airbus Model A330-200, A330-200 Freighter, A330-300, A340- 200, and A340-300 series airplanes; and AD 2013-16-26 for all Airbus Model A330-200 Freighter, A330-200 and -300, and A340-200 and -300 series airplanes. AD 2012-12-12 requires repetitive inspections of the outer skin rivets of the cargo doors; repair if necessary; and other repetitive inspections. AD 2013-16-26 requires repetitive inspections of certain cargo doors, and repair if necessary. Since we issued AD 2012-12-12 and AD 2013-16-26, we have determined that a new inspection procedure is necessary to address the unsafe condition. This proposed AD would continue to require repetitive inspections and repair if necessary. This proposed AD would add a one-time inspection and adjustment of certain hook gaps; reinforcement of the door frame structure; related investigative and corrective actions if necessary; and a modification, which would allow deferring reinforcement of the cargo door structure. We are proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.