AD 2014-16-22 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

Models named: A330-201, -202, -203, -223, -223F, -243, -243F, -301, -302, -303. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

This AD applies to Airbus Model A330-201, -202, -203, -223, -223F, -243, -243F, -301, -302, -303, -321, -322, -323, -341, -342, and -343 airplanes; Model A340-211, -212, -213, -311, -312, and -313 airplanes; and Model A340-541 and -642 airplanes; certificated in any category; all manufacturer serial numbers.

Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done.

(1) For airplanes on which the total number of flight hours accumulated on the CPCS safety valves are known: Replace the CPCS safety valve with a serviceable valve at the later of the times specified in paragraph (g)(1)(i) or (g)(1)(ii) of this AD. Replace the valve in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of the applicable service information identified in paragraph (g)(3)(i), (g)(3)(ii), or (g)(3)(iii) of this AD. Repeat the replacement at intervals not to exceed 50,000 flight hours or 12 years accumulated on the CPCS safety valve, whichever occurs first. (i) Before the safety valve accumulates 50,000 total flight hours or 12 years since first installation or since the last restoration, as applicable, whichever occurs first. (ii) Within 26 months after the effective date of this AD. (2) For airplanes on which the total number of flight hours accumulated on the CPCS safety valve are unknown: Replace the CPCS safety valve with a serviceable valve within 26 months after the effective date of this AD, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of the applicable service information identified in paragraph (g)(3)(i), (g)(3)(ii), or (g)(3)(iii) of this AD. Repeat the replacement at intervals not to exceed 50,000 flight hours or 12 years accumulated on the CPCS safety valve, whichever occurs first. (3) Use the applicable service information identified in paragraph (g)(3)(i), (g)(3)(ii), or (g)(3)(iii) of this AD to accomplish the specified actions in paragraph (g) of this AD. (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A330-21-3154, Revision 01, dated April 10, 2013 (for Model A330-200 Freighter, A330-200 and A330-300 series airplanes). (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-21-4150, Revision 01, dated April 10, 2013 (for Model A340-200 and A340-300 series airplanes). (iii) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-21-5044, Revision 01, dated April 10, 2013 (for Model A340-500 and A340-600 series airplanes).

This AD was prompted by a determination that the service life limits of the cabin pressure control system (CPCS) safety valves installed on the aft pressure bulkhead were being exceeded. We are issuing this AD to prevent exceeding the service life limits of the CPCS safety valve, which, in the event of a failure, could result in excessive positive or negative differential pressure in the fuselage, and consequent incapacitation or injuries to airplane occupants.

None.