Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier Model DHC-8-400, -401, and -402 Series Airplanes

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bombardier Model DHC-8-400, -401, and -402 series airplanes. This AD requires repetitive inspections to detect discrepancies of the attachment fittings of the outboard flap front spar at flap track Number 4 and Number 5 locations, and corrective actions if necessary. This AD also requires eventual replacement of the attachment fittings as terminating action for the repetitive inspections. This AD is prompted by the discovery of several airplanes that have loose flap front spar attachment fittings at flap track Number 4 and Number 5 locations. We are issuing this AD to prevent the attachment fittings from becoming detached, and consequent loss of control of the airplane.