Summary
This document proposes the adoption of a new airworthiness directive (AD) that is applicable to certain Jetstream Model 4101 airplanes. This proposal would require inspections of the handrail assembly at the main entrance door to detect loose or missing rivets, abnormal movement between the handrail pivot-tube and the spigot that attaches to the bearing assembly, and cracks on the handrail pivot- tube. It would also require repair or replacement of the assembly, if necessary. This proposal is prompted by a report indicating that fatigue cracks and loose rivets were found on the handrail assembly of the main passenger entrance door on an in-service airplane. The actions specified by the proposed AD are intended to prevent these conditions, which can lead to the failure of the door handrail assembly; such failure could allow the door to fall free and subsequently cause injury to people on the airplane or on the ground.