Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A330-200 and -300 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a report of a prematurely fractured main landing gear (MLG) bogie beam. This proposed AD would require replacing certain MLG bogie beams before reaching new reduced life limits. We are proposing this AD to prevent fracture of the MLG bogie beam, which, under high speed, could ultimately result in the airplane departing the runway, the bogie beam detaching from the airplane, or collapse of the MLG; and consequent structural damage to the airplane and injury to the occupants.

Agency Contact: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone (425) 227-1138; fax (425) 227-1149.