AD NUMBER:2010-04-02

MANUFACTURER: Airbus Model A310-221, -222, -322, - 324, and -325 Airplanes, and Model A300 B4-620, B4-622, B4-622R, and F4-622R Airplanes, Equipped With Pratt & Whitney PW4000 or JT9D-7R4 Series Engines
SUBJECT: Airworthiness Directive 2010-04-02

SUMMARY: This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as:

During the year 2000, life extension exercise programs were launched for Airbus A310 and A300-600 aircraft. Certification of Extended Service Goal (ESG) is based on analysis, except for fan cowl and thrust reverser (T/R) latches, which are always certified by tests.  Testing of the T/R door centre latch has shown that this does not meet the requirements for ESG.

The unsafe condition is possible failure of the T/R latch and detachment of the T/R from the airplane, which could result in structural damage and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane.

FMI: http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgAD.nsf/0/2A1AF0AB85138FDD862576C8005230CE?OpenDocument