Summary
This document proposes the adoption of a new airworthiness directive (AD) that is applicable to all McDonnell Douglas Model DC-9 and C-9 (military) series airplanes. This proposal would require replacement, inspection, and modification of the attach fittings of the main landing gear (MLG). This proposal is prompted by reports of severe structural damage and rupture of the integral fuel tank due to overload of the MLG caused by adverse landing conditions. The actions specified by the proposed AD are intended to minimize the possibility of primary structural damage and rupture of the integral fuel tank due to overload of the MLG; these conditions could lead to fuel spillage and a resultant fire.