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, Model MD-88 airplanes, and Model MD-90-30 airplanes. This proposal would require repetitive inspections to detect cracking of the main landing gear (MLG) shock strut pistons, and replacement of a cracked piston with a new or serviceable part. This proposal is prompted by reports indicating that, while an airplane was positioned on the taxiway, the right MLG shock strut piston failed due to fatigue cracking. The actions specified by the proposed AD are intended to detect and correct such fatigue cracking, which could result in failure of the piston, and consequent damage to the airplane structure or injury to the passengers and flightcrew.