AD NUMBER: AD 2009-10-03

MANUFACTURER: 328 Support Services GmbH Dornier Model 328-100 and -300 Airplanes
SUBJECT: Airworthiness Directive AD 2009-10-03 

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 a recent Aileron Dual Load Path and Linkage Inspection, which is a certification maintenance requirement (CMR) task, the installed control rods were found to be corroded. The affected rod assemblies were removed for investigation and it was found that the Tab Side Fitting was cracked.

Subsequently, similar cracks were found on another aeroplane in a supporting lever of the Control Rod attachment fitting of the Trim Tab. Those cracks were found during the applicable CMR inspection.

This condition, if not corrected, could lead to structural failure of the dual load path attachment arrangement of the affected trim and spring tabs, possibly resulting in a flutter problem that could lead to loss of control of the aeroplane. 

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/0/78BA114DA9BB13D9862575B000487CD6?OpenDocument