Summary
This document revises an earlier proposed airworthiness directive (AD), applicable to certain Airbus Model A319 and A320 series airplanes. That proposed AD would have required an inspection of the clearance space between the fuel quantity indication (FQI) probes located in the center fuel tank and the adjacent structure, an inspection of the position of the support bracket for each probe, an inspection of the part number for each support bracket, and corrective action if necessary. This new action revises the proposed rule by expanding the applicability of the proposed AD. The actions specified by this new proposed AD are intended to prevent the loss of FQI of the center fuel tank, and electrical arcing between the FQI probes and the adjacent structure in the event that the airplane is struck by lightning. Such arcing could create a potential ignition source within the center fuel tank and an increased risk of a fuel tank explosion and fire. This action is intended to addressthe identified unsafe condition.