Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330-200 and -300 Series Airplanes, Model A340-200 and -300 Series Airplanes, and Model A340-541 and A340-642 Airplanes

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A330-200 and -300 series airplanes, Model A340-200 and - 300 series airplanes, and Model A340-541 and A340-642 airplanes. This AD requires revising the airplane flight manual by incorporating new procedures to follow in the event of a fuel leak. This AD results from a determination that, once a fuel leak is detected, fuel management procedures are a critical factor in limiting the consequences of the leak. We are issuing this AD to ensure that the flightcrew, in the event of a fuel leak, is advised of appropriate procedures to follow, such as isolating the fuel tanks, stopping any fuel transfers, and landing as soon as possible. Failure to follow these procedures could result in excessive fuel loss that could cause the engines to shut down during flight.