AD NUMBER: 2009-11-08

MANUFACTURER: Model A330-202, -223, -243, - 301, -322, and -342 Airplanes
SUBJECT: Airworthiness Directive 2009-11-08

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:

• During the A330 and A340 aircraft fatigue test, cracks appeared on the right and left sides between the crossing area of the keel angle fitting and the front spar of the Centre Wing Box (CWB). Several modifications have been introduced in the fleet in the area of frame [FR] 40 keel angle assembly in order to prevent these cracks. However the new design has caused interference between one fastener and the keel angle which was corrected by further local reprofiling of the keel angle horizontal flange. Analysis shows that without an inspection of this reprofiled area, the structural integrity of the area is impacted, which constitutes an unsafe condition.

This AD requires actions that are intended to address the unsafe condition described in the MCAI.

FMI: http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgAD.nsf/0/584D4BCC74E8DF78862575C4004F8840?OpenDocument