Airworthiness Directives; ATR-GIE Avions de Transport Régional Airplanes
Key claim: The FAA proposes requiring operators of ATR42 and ATR72 airplanes to leak-test certain landing-gear selector valves and replace them if needed, after reports of uncommanded nose landing gear retraction.
Abstract
(Proposed Rule · Transportation Department, Federal Aviation Administration) The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all ATR-GIE Avions de Transport R[eacute]gional Model ATR42 and ATR72 airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of uncommanded nose landing gear (NLG) retraction. This proposed AD would require a leakage test of certain landing gear selector valves (LGSVs) and replacement, as applicable. This proposed AD would also limit the installation of affected parts under certain conditions. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Why this matters
Uncommanded nose landing gear retraction is a serious safety hazard on the ground, risking collapse during taxi, takeoff, or landing. This proposed AD adds ATR42/ATR72 selector-valve leak testing to the ongoing stream of FAA airworthiness actions targeting specific component defects on regional aircraft fleets.