Action
Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
Summary
The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 99- 01-19 and AD 2004-25-02, which apply to certain Airbus SAS Model A320 series airplanes. AD 99-01-19 and AD 2004-25-02 require repetitive inspections to detect fatigue cracking in certain areas of the fuselage, and corrective action if necessary. AD 2004-25-02 also provides an optional terminating action for the repetitive inspections. Since the FAA issued AD 2004-25-02, it has been reported that, during full scale tests to support the Model A320 structure extended service goal (ESG) exercise, several cracks were found on both sides of the overwing emergency exit door cut-outs at fuselage section 15. This proposed AD would continue to require, for certain airplanes, repetitive inspections of the fastener holes for any cracking, and repair if necessary, and would provide an optional terminating action for the fastener hole inspections. This proposed AD would also expand the applicable airplanes and require, for all airplanes, inspections of the emergency exit door structure for any cracking and repair if necessary; as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which will be incorporated by reference. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.