airworthiness · Rule · Final rule. · Published 2013-04-10 · Effective 2013-05-15 · 78 FR 21230
Document
Document number
2013-08068
Federal Register citation
78 FR 21230
Type
Rule
Action
Final rule.
Category
airworthiness
Manufacturer
Airbus
Publication date
2013-04-10
Effective date
2013-05-15
FAA docket
Docket No. FAA-2012-1105
Abstract
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A318, A319, and A320 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by fuel system reviews conducted by the manufacturer, which revealed that certain fuel pumps under certain conditions can create an ignition source in the fuel tank. This AD requires modification of the center tank fuel pump control circuit by installation of ground fault interrupters (GFIs). This AD would also require either replacement of the GFI or deactivation of the associated fuel pump following failure of any post-modification operational test of the GFI. We are issuing this AD to prevent the potential of ignition sources inside fuel tanks, which, in combination with flammable fuel vapors, could result in fuel tank explosions and consequent loss of the airplane.