Airworthiness Directives; Construcciones Aeronauticas, S. A. (CASA) Model CN-235 Series Airplanes

This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD), applicable to certain CASA Model CN-235 series airplanes, that requires a one-time inspection to detect fatigue cracking in the area of the center wing-to-fuselage attachment fitting, and repair, if necessary. This amendment also would require installation of a reinforcing plate in the attachment area of that fitting. This amendment is prompted by a report from the manufacturer indicating that, during full-scale fatigue testing, fatigue cracks were detected in this area. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent fatigue cracking, which consequently could reduce the structural integrity of this area.