Summary
The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus SAS Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a report that the oil used to protect the nose landing gear (NLG) main fittings for transportation and storage was not removed before final heat treatment of the affected parts, possibly generating sub-surface cavities during heat treatment of the affected parts. This proposed AD would require replacing each affected NLG main fitting with a serviceable part, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which will be incorporated by reference. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.