Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A319 and A320 Series Airplanes

This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD), applicable to certain Airbus Model A319 and A320 series airplanes, that requires an inspection of the clearance space between the fuel quantity indication (FQI) probes located in the center fuel tank and the adjacent structure, an inspection of the position of the support bracket for each probe, an inspection of the part number for each support bracket, and corrective action if necessary. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent the loss of FQI of the center fuel tank, and electrical arcing between the FQI probes and the adjacent structure in the event that the airplane is struck by lightning. Such arcing could create a potential ignition source within the center fuel tank and an increased risk of a fuel tank explosion and fire. This action is intended to address the identified unsafe condition.