airworthiness · Rule · Final rule; request for comments. · Published 2012-03-30 · Effective 2012-04-16 · 77 FR 19065
Document
Document number
2012-7004
Federal Register citation
77 FR 19065
Type
Rule
Action
Final rule; request for comments.
Category
airworthiness
Manufacturer
Airbus
Publication date
2012-03-30
Effective date
2012-04-16
FAA docket
Docket No. FAA-2012-0295
Abstract
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A340-600 series airplanes. This AD requires a detailed inspection for abnormalities of the ball lock retainer on the off-wing ramp slides; for closure of the soft cover; for full engagement of the slide release pin; for broken, missing, and improper placement of the safety tie thread on the slide release pin; and for proper functioning of the vent valve; and replacement of the off-wing ramp slides if necessary. This AD was prompted by reports of in-flight loss of the blow-out panel and the slide unit from a right-hand off-wing ramp- slide. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct abnormalities of the ball lock retainer, if the soft cover is open, if the slide pin release is not engaged or the safety tie thread is missing, broken, or improperly placed and the vent valve is not functioning properly, which could result in in-flight loss of the off-wing ramp slide.