AD FAA-2012-0111

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A330-200, A330-200 Freighter, A330-300, A340-200, and A340-300 series airplanes; and Model A340-541 airplanes and Model A340- 642 airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of cracks in the bogie pivot pin caused by material heating due to friction between the bogie pivot pin and bush, leading to chrome detachment and chrome dragging on the bogie pivot pin. This AD requires repetitive detailed inspections for degradation of the bogie pivot pins and for any cracks and damage of the pivot pin bushes of the main and central landing gear; a magnetic particle inspection of the affected bogie pivot pins for corrosion and base metal cracks; and repairing or replacing bogie pivot pins and pivot pin bushes, if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracks and damage to the main and central landing gear, which could result in the collapse of the landing gear and adversely affect the airplane's continued safe flight and landing.