Airworthiness Directives; BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Model BAe 146-100A and -200A Series Airplanes

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Model BAe 146-100A and -200A series airplanes. This AD requires inspecting the nose landing gear (NLG) assembly to determine the part number of the NLG main fitting subassembly. For subject NLG main fitting subassemblies, this AD also requires determining the total number of accumulated landings on a subject NLG main fitting subassembly, and eventually replacing the NLG assembly. This AD results from a report indicating that the airplane maintenance manual contains incorrect safe-life limit information for certain NLG assemblies. We are issuing this AD to ensure that affected NLG fitting subassemblies are removed from service before they reach their approved safe-life limit. Operating with an NLG fitting subassembly that is beyond its approved safe-life limit could result in failure of the NLG and consequent loss of directional control on the ground and major structural damage to the airplane.