Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330, A340-200, and A340-300 Series Airplanes

This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD), applicable to certain Airbus Model A330, A340-200, and A340-300 series airplanes. This AD requires initial and repetitive inspections of certain frame stiffeners to detect cracking. If any cracking is found, this AD requires replacement of the stiffener with a new, reinforced stiffener. Replacement of the stiffener constitutes terminating action for certain inspections. This AD also requires a one-time inspection of any new, reinforced stiffener; and repair or replacement of the new, reinforced stiffener if any cracking is found during the one-time inspection. This AD also provides for an optional terminating action for certain requirements of this AD. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent fatigue failure of certain frame stiffener fittings, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane. This action is intended to address the identified unsafe condition.