Summary
This document proposes the adoption of a new airworthiness directive (AD) that is applicable to all Airbus Model A310 series airplanes. This proposal would require repetitive inspections of the metallic vapor seals in the center fuel tank to detect holes, tears, or a change in shape; corrective action, if such damage is detected; and follow-up tests for leaks. The proposal is prompted by reports of damaged metallic vapor seals observed during routine maintenance. This action is necessary to detect and correct damage to the metallic vapor seal in the center fuel tank, which could lead to leakage of fuel from the center tank into the air conditioning pack bay located below the center tank, providing a potential for fuel to be in contact with fuel ignition sources. This action is intended to address the identified unsafe condition.