Summary
We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the products listed above. This proposed AD would require modifying the door latch fittings and witness mark placards of the off-wing escape slide systems; and for certain airplanes, replacing the bearings and lockbase retainer in the door latch assembly, relocating and adjusting of the sensor target and the sensor proximity switch, and testing to ensure positive door locking and corrective action if necessary. For certain airplanes, this proposed AD would also require installing a bumper assembly and placards. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of in-flight loss of the off-wing escape slide. We are proposing this AD to prevent in-flight loss of the off-wing escape slide, which could result in the unavailability of the escape slide during a time-critical evacuation. Additionally, the departed slide could cause damage to the fuselage, wing, flaps, or stabilizer, which could degrade flight control.