Summary
This document proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) that would apply to all Avions Pierre Robin Model R2160 airplanes. The proposed AD would require repetitively inspecting the vertical stabilizer spar in the area of the lower fitting of the rudder for cracks, loose rivets, or spar web distortion; and modifying the vertical stabilizer spar either immediately or at a certain time period depending on whether discrepancies are found during the inspections. The proposed AD is the result of mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for France. The actions specified by the proposed AD are intended to detect defects (cracks, loose rivets, or spar web distortion) in the vertical stabilizer spar, which could result in structural failure of the vertical stabilizer with possible reduced or loss of control of the airplane.