Summary
This document proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) that would apply to all Glaser-Dirks Flugzeugbau GmbH (Glaser- Dirks) Models DG-100 and DG-400 gliders. The proposed AD would require repetitively inspecting the airbrakes to assure they retract at their outboard end first, and repairing the airbrakes if they do not retract at their outboard end first; and repetitively inspecting the airbrake torque tube in the fuselage for cracks or deformations, and reinforcing or replacing, as necessary, if cracks or deformations are found in the airbrake torque tube. The proposed AD is the result of mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for Germany. The actions specified by the proposed AD are intended to prevent overloading of the airbrake control system caused by free play between the bellcrank and airbrake plate, which could result in failure of the operating lever of the airbrake torque tube in the fuselage.