Summary
We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD), for certain Airbus Model A300 B2-1C, B2K-3C, B2-203, B4-2C, B4-103, and B4- 203 airplanes and Model A300 B4-601, B4-603, B4-620, B4-622, B4-605R, B4-622R, and F4-605R airplanes, that would supersede an existing AD. This proposed AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as:
Following the occurrence of cracks on the MLG [main landing gear] Rib 5 RH [right-hand] and LH [left-hand] attachment fitting lower flanges, DGAC [Direction G n rale de l'Aviation Civile] France AD 2003-318(B) was issued to require repetitive inspections and, as terminating action * * * [.]
Subsequently, new cases of cracks were discovered during scheduled maintenance checks by operators of A300B4 and A300-600 type aeroplanes on which the terminating action* * * [was] embodied. This condition, if not corrected, could affect the structural integrity of those aeroplanes. * * * * *
The proposed AD would require actions that are intended to address the unsafe condition described in the MCAI.