Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-18897 · Fuselage
Airbus Airplanes
This AD applies to Airbus Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232 airplanes, certificated in any category, all manufacturer serial numbers.
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A321 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by a determination that cracks could develop on holes at certain fuselage frame locations. This AD requires repetitive inspections for cracking on holes at certain fuselage frame locations, and repairs if necessary. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
At the later of the times specified in paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) of this AD: Do a special detailed (rototest) inspection for cracking of the affected holes at frame 35.2A on the left-hand side and right-hand side between stringer 22 and stringer 23, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1315, dated January 13, 2016 (right-hand side); and Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1316, dated January 13, 2016 (left-hand side). Repeat the inspection of the affected holes thereafter at intervals not to exceed 21,500 flight cycles or 43,100 flight hours, whichever occurs first.
(1) Before exceeding 25,400 total flight cycles or 50,900 total flight hours since first flight of the airplane, whichever occurs first.
(2) Within 3,300 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD.
If any crack is found during any inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD: Before further flight, repair using a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus's EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). Although the service information specified in paragraph (g) of this AD specifies to contact Airbus for repair instructions, and specifies that action as “RC” (Required for Compliance), this AD requires repair as specified in this paragraph. Repair of an airplane as required by this paragraph does not constitute terminating action for the repetitive actions required by paragraph (g) of this AD, unless specified otherwise in the instructions provided by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or EASA; or Airbus's EASA DOA.
