AD NUMBER: AD 2009-06-22

MANUFACTURER: Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 Airplanes

SUBJECT: Airworthiness Directive 2009-06-22

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the products listed above. 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:

An A320 aircraft experienced an event where it was not possible to open the reinforced cockpit door, even after power had been removed from the aircraft. Investigation has identified that the cockpit door latch/striker assembly may have overheated, causing permanent internal damage prior to being electrically isolated by the internal thermal fuse. This condition, in case of a rapid decompression in the cockpit, would prevent the necessary unlocking/ opening of the door, which may lead to failure of the airplane structure. 

We are issuing this AD to require actions to correct the unsafe condition on these products.

FMI: http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgAD.nsf/0/0981C13D1F431E718625758300538EAB?OpenDocument