airworthiness · Rule · Final rule; request for comments. · Published 2012-03-30 · Effective 2012-04-16 · 77 FR 19067
Document
Document number
2012-7007
Federal Register citation
77 FR 19067
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-2012-0294
Abstract
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A321-131, -211, -212, and -231 airplanes. This AD requires a rotating probe inspection for cracking of the lower panel bore holes of the center wing box (CWB), and corrective actions if necessary. This AD was prompted by reports of incorrect installation of rib pads of the lower aft panel of the CWB due to poor clamping during drilling, and reports that metal chips trapped between panels and stiffeners could impact the fatigue life of CWB panels. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracking and damage in the bore holes of the rib pads of the lower forward and aft panels of the CWB which could result in reduced structural integrity of the wings.