Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-17233 · Fuselage
Airbus Airplanes
This AD applies to Airbus Model A320-214 and -232 airplanes; certificated in any category; manufacturer serial numbers 3456, 3503, 3516, 3529, 3591, 3597, 3611, 3631, 3696, 3698, 3714, 3719, 3775, 3777, 3780, 3782, 3786, 3797, 3805, 3812, 3870, 3907, 3909, 3913, 3922, 3929, 3946, 3953, 3975, 3979, 3991, 4010, 4012, 4014, 4027, 4034, 4043, 4046, 4064, 4065, 4084, 4093, 4094, and 4097.
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A320-214 and -232 airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports that medium-head fasteners were installed in lieu of shear-head fasteners on a certain upper panel, which manufacturer fatigue and damage tolerance analyses demonstrated could have an effect on panel fatigue life. This AD requires repetitive inspections for cracking of certain fasteners, and repairs if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct such cracking, which could result in the loss of structural integrity of the airplane.
You are responsible for having the actions required by this AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the actions have already been done.
Before the accumulation of 35,900 total flight cycles or 88,100 total flight hours, whichever occurs first: Do a high frequency eddy current inspection for cracking of the two rows of six fasteners at frame 35 between stringers 5 and 6 on the left and right sides, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1244, excluding Appendix 1, dated March 17, 2011. Repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 28,100 flight cycles or 56,300 flight hours, whichever occurs first.
If any crack is detected during any inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD: Before further flight, repair the crack 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.
The aircraft, engines and makers this AD names, by the model designations in its text. A model listed here may still be outside the AD's serial ranges.
Aircraft
