AD 99-16-14 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A300, A310, and A300-600 Series Airplanes

Models named: A300, A310, A300-600 series. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

All Model A300, A310, and A300-600 series airplanes; certificated in any category. Note 1: This AD applies to each airplane identified in the preceding applicability provision, regardless of whether it has been modified, altered, or repaired in the area subject to the requirements of this AD. For airplanes that have been modified, altered, or repaired so that the performance of the requirements of this AD is affected, the owner/operator must request approval for an alternative method of compliance in accordance with paragraph (b) of this AD. The request should include an assessment of the effect of the modification, alteration, or repair on the unsafe condition addressed by this AD; and, if the unsafe condition has not been eliminated, the request should include specific proposed actions to address it.

Required as indicated, unless accomplished previously. To prevent erratic movements of the ailerons, elevator, and/or rudder that are commanded by discrepant autopilot actuators, which could result in reduced controllability of the airplane, accomplish the following: Inspection (a) Within 10 days after the effective date of this AD, perform a one-time inspection of the auto pilot systems for proper engagement to determine if the main electro valve electrical connectors of the yaw, roll, and pitch autopilot actuators are correctly installed, in accordance with the procedure specified in paragraph 4.2 of Airbus Industrie All Operators Telex (AOT) A300- 22A0114 (for Model A300 series airplanes), A310-22A2050 (for Model A310 series airplanes), or A300-600-22A6039 (for Model A300-600 series airplanes); each dated May 27, 1999; as applicable. If autopilot systems 1 and 2 cannot be engaged: Prior to further flight, perform a detailed inspection of the main electro valve electrical connectors of the yaw, roll, and pitch autopilot actuators for proper installation, and correct any discrepancy; in accordance with paragraph 4.2 of the applicable AOT. Note 2: For the purposes of this AD, a detailed inspection is defined as: ``An intensive visual examination of a specific structural area, system, installation, or assembly to detect damage, failure, or irregularity. Available lighting is normally supplemented with a direct source of good lighting at intensity deemed appropriate by the inspector. Inspection aids such as mirror, magnifying lenses, etc. may be used. Surface cleaning and elaborate access procedures may be required.'' Alternative Methods of Compliance (b) An alternative method of compliance or adjustment of the compliance time that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used if approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate. Operators shall submit their requests through an appropriate FAA Principal Maintenance Inspector, who may add comments and then send it to the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116. Note 3: Information concerning the existence of approved alternative methods of compliance with this AD, if any, may be obtained from the International Branch, ANM-116. Special Flight Permits (c) Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with Secs. 21.197 and 21.199 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199) to operate the airplane to a location where the requirements of this AD can be accomplished. Incorporation by Reference (d) The actions shall be done in accordance with Airbus All Operators Telex A300-22A0114, dated May 27, 1999; Airbus All Operators Telex A310-22A2050, dated May 27, 1999; and Airbus All Operators Telex A300-600-22A6039, dated May 27, 1999; as applicable. This incorporation by reference was approved by the Director of the Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Copies may be obtained from Airbus Industrie, Customer Services Directorate, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France. Copies may be inspected at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC. Note 4: The subject of this AD is addressed in French airworthiness directive 1999-288-292(B) dated June 30, 1999. (e) This amendment becomes effective on August 24, 1999. Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 30, 1999. D.L. Riggin, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 99-20325 Filed 8-6-99; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P