Summary
We propose to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2007-11- 11 and AD 2017-01-11, which apply to all Airbus SAS Model A318 and Model A319 series airplanes; Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes; and Model A321 series airplanes. AD 2007-11-11 requires an inspection to determine the serial number of both main landing gear (MLG) sliding tubes, repetitive inspections for cracking of the affected MLG sliding tubes and corrective actions if necessary, and eventual replacement of both MLG shock absorbers. AD 2017-01-11 requires identification of the part number and serial number of the MLG sliding tubes; inspection of affected chromium plates and sliding tube axles for damage; and replacement of the sliding tube if necessary. Since we issued AD 2007-11-11 and AD 2017-01-11, it was determined that cracks were found in the MLG sliding tubes due to certain manufacturing defects that might not be identified using the current on-wing scheduled inspections. This proposed AD would retain certain requirements of AD 2007-11-11 and AD 2017-01-11. This proposed AD would also require repetitive inspections of affected MLG sliding tubes for cracking, replacement of cracked MLG sliding tubes, and eventual replacement of each affected MLG sliding tube. We are proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.