Summary
This document proposes the adoption of a new airworthiness directive (AD) that is applicable to certain McDonnell Douglas Model MD-11 series airplanes. This proposal would require inspections to detect attachment failures of the 12 attachments located on the No. 4 banjo fitting/pylon carry-through cap, and to detect cracking of the forward and aft flanges and bolt holes of the No. 4 banjo fitting; repair, if necessary; and replacement of the 12 attachments with new or serviceable parts. Such replacement would terminate the repetitive inspections. This proposal is prompted by a report indicating that attachment bolts on the forward and aft flanges of the No. 4 banjo fitting and the pylon carry-through cap failed due to fatigue cracking. The actions specified by the proposed AD are intended to prevent such cracking, which could result in reduced controllability of the airplane during flight and ground operations.