Summary
The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. This proposed AD would require removing two maintenance lights in the hydraulics bay, disconnecting the wiring for the lights, and modifying the switches. This proposed AD is prompted by underlying safety issues involved in fuel tank explosions on several large transport airplanes. We are proposing this AD to prevent an ignition source for fuel vapor in the hydraulics bay, which could result in fire or explosion in the adjacent center wing fuel tank.