Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-14708 · Aerospatiale Model ATR42 and ATR72 Airplanes
Aerospatiale Model ATR42 and ATR72 Airplanes
This AD applies to airplanes identified in Table 1 of this AD, certificated in any category.
| Aerospatiale model | Manufacturer serial numbers (MSN) |
|---|---|
| (1) ATR42-200, -300, -320, and -500 airplanes | Up to MSN 645 inclusive. |
| (2) ATR72-101, -201, -102, -202, -211, -212, and -212A airplanes | Up to MSN 730 inclusive, excluding MSN 723. |
The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Aerospatiale Model ATR42 and ATR72 airplanes. This AD requires an inspection of the locking bolt of the upper attachment pin of the shock absorber on both main landing gears (MLGs) for the correct installation of the locking bolt and for any missing locking bolt, washer, nut, cotter pin, or compound, and applicable corrective action if necessary. This AD results from a report of migration and subsequent rupture of the attachment pin of the shock absorber of a MLG. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of a MLG, which could result in significant structural damage to the airplane and possible injury to the occupants.
You are responsible for having the actions required by this AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the actions have already been done.
Within 15 days after the effective date of this AD, do a general visual inspection of the locking bolt of the upper attachment pin of the shock absorber on both MLGs for the correct installation of the locking bolt and for any missing locking bolt, washer, nut, cotter pin, or compound; and before further flight, do all applicable corrective actions. Do the actions in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Messier-Dowty Special Inspection Service Bulletin 631-32-190, dated July 12, 2006, except as provided by paragraph (g) of this AD.
Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a general visual inspection is: “A visual examination of an interior or exterior area, installation, or assembly to detect obvious damage, failure, or irregularity. This level of inspection is made from within touching distance unless otherwise specified. A mirror may be necessary to ensure visual access to all surfaces in the inspection area. This level of inspection is made under normally available lighting conditions such as daylight, hangar lighting, flashlight, or droplight and may require removal or opening of access panels or doors. Stands, ladders, or platforms may be required to gain proximity to the area being checked.”
(g) Where Messier-Dowty Special Inspection Service Bulletin 631-32-190, dated July 12, 2006, specifies contacting Messier-Dowty for appropriate action: Before further flight, repair the locking bolt using a method approved by either the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) (or its delegated agent).
