Airworthiness Directives; Fokker Model F.28 Mark 1000, 2000, 3000, and 4000 Series Airplanes

This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD), applicable to all Fokker Model F.28 Mark 1000, 2000, 3000, and 4000 series airplanes, that requires a one-time eddy current inspection for cracks of the fuselage butt joint which is forward of the emergency exits on the left- and right-hand sides of the airplane at the level of stringers 27/48. This proposal would also require repair of any cracks detected. This amendment is prompted by issuance of mandatory continuing airworthiness information by a foreign airworthiness authority. The actions specified by this AD are intended to detect and correct cracks in the area of the emergency escape hatches, which, if undetected, could result in depressurization during flight, possibly leading to structural failure of the airplane.