Action
Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
Summary
We propose to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2014-20- 04, which applies to all Airbus SAS Model A318 series airplanes; Airbus SAS Model A319 series airplanes; Airbus SAS Model A320-111, -211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes; and Airbus SAS Model A321-111, - 112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232 airplanes. AD 2014-20-04 requires repetitive inspections for cracking of the four titanium angles between the belly fairing and the keel beam side panel, an inspection for cracking of the open holes if any cracking is found in the titanium angles, and repair or replacement if necessary. Since we issued AD 2014-20-04, we have determined that additional work is necessary for certain airplanes. This proposed AD would continue to require repetitive inspections for cracking of the four titanium angles between the belly fairing and the keel beam side panel, an inspection for cracking of the open holes if any cracking is found in the titanium angles, and repair or replacement if necessary. This proposed AD would also revise the applicability by adding Model A320-216 airplanes. This proposed AD would also require a detailed inspection for and replacement of certain rivets (including a rotating probe test for cracks in the open holes), and corrective actions if necessary. We are proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.