Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes

FAA / Federal Register · 2019-12877

We propose to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2012-22- 18, which applies to all Airbus SAS Model A330-243, -243F, -341, -342, and -343 airplanes. AD 2012-22-18 requires repetitive inspections of the three inner acoustic panels of both engine air intake cowls to detect disbonding, and corrective actions if necessary. Since we issued AD 2012-22-18, we have received additional reports of engine air inlet cowl collapse. This proposed AD would retain the requirements of AD 2012-22-18 with a reduced compliance time and reduced repetitive inspection intervals. This proposed AD would also provide for an optional modification that is terminating action for the repetitive inspections. These actions are specified in a European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which will be incorporated by reference. We are proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.