Summary
We propose to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2004-03- 07, which applies to certain Airbus Model A320-111, -211, -212, and - 231 series airplanes. AD 2004-03-07 requires repetitive inspections for fatigue cracking around the fasteners attaching the pressure panel to the flexible bracket at frame (FR) 36, adjacent to the longitudinal beams on the left and right sides of the airplane; and repair as necessary. Since we issued AD 2004-03-07, additional cracking has been found under the longitudinal beams in locations outside of the inspection areas required by AD 2004-03-07. This proposed AD would retain certain requirements of AD 2004-03-07, expand the applicability, and require an inspection of the fastener holes on the pressure panel between FR 35 and FR 36 under the longitudinal beam and modification or repair as applicable. We are proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.