Airworthiness Directives; McDonnell Douglas Model DC-9-81 (MD-81), DC-9-82 (MD-82), DC-9-83 (MD-83), DC-9-87 (MD-87), MD-88, and MD-90-30 Airplanes

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all McDonnell Douglas airplanes identified above. This AD requires a one- time inspection of the aft attach fitting assembly of the spoiler link to determine the part number, and further investigative action and replacement of the assembly with a new or serviceable assembly, if necessary. This AD results from a determination that the holes of certain aft attach fitting assemblies of the spoiler link were not cold-worked during production. We are issuing this AD to prevent fatigue cracking of the aft attach fitting of the spoiler link and consequent failure of the fitting. Failure of the fitting could result in an asymmetrical lift condition and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane.