Applicability: Model C-212-DF and C-212-EE aircraft, serial numbers 444 through 477, except if EADS-CASA AOL 212-010 Revision 1 or Revision 2 has been previously accomplished on both upper and lower fittings in both outer and centre wings on both left and right hand sides of the aircraft.

Requirement:

1. Inspect the eight upper and lower fittings in both outer and centre wings on both left and right hand sides of the aircraft to verify the fitting material, in accordance with EADS-CASA COM 212-303 original issue. For fittings verified to be made of 2024-T42 (L-3140-T42) alloy material, no further action is required.
2. For fittings verified to be made of 7050-T7451 (L-3767-T7451), remove the affected outer wing and perform a one-time inspection in accordance with EADS-CASA COM 212-301 Revision 1 and EADS-CASA COM 212-302 Revision 1. If a crack is detected during the Requirement 2 inspection, before further flight, replace the affected fitting.

Note: EASA Emergency AD 2006-0359-E refers.

Compliance:

• Before further flight after 1 December 2006.
• Before further flight.

This Airworthiness Directive becomes effective on 1 December 2006.

Background: Cracks were discovered in outer to centre wing attachment fittings during final assembly of a production aircraft, and also in several in-service aircraft. Investigation revealed the cracking was caused by a defective manufacturing process at the supplier facility. This condition, which involves fittings that are principal structural elements, could result in reduced structural integrity of the aircraft unless detected and corrected.

FMI: www.casa.gov.au