Summary
This document proposes the adoption of a new airworthiness directive (AD) that is applicable to certain McDonnell Douglas Model DC-9-80 series airplanes and Model MD-88 airplanes. This proposal would require a one-time inspection to detect cracking of the main landing gear (MLG) pistons, and repair or replacement of the pistons with new or serviceable parts, if necessary. This proposal is prompted by reports of failure of the MLG pistons that occurred during towing of the airplanes. The actions specified by the proposed AD are intended to prevent fatigue cracking of the MLG pistons, which could result in failure of the pistons and subsequent damage to the airplane structure or injury to airplane occupants.