AD FAA-2012-0334

We are superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Sicma Aero Seat Model 9401, 9402, 9404, 9505, 9406, 9407, 9408, and 9409 series passenger seat assemblies, installed on, but not limited to, ATR--GIE Avions de Transport R[eacute]gional Model ATR42 and ATR72 airplanes. That AD currently requires repetitive detailed inspections for cracking of the central and lateral spreaders of the affected seats, and repair or replacement of the spreader if necessary. This AD was prompted by a determination that the existing AD included Model 9505 series passenger seat assemblies in the applicability instead of Model 9405 series passenger seat assemblies. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracking of the central and lateral spreaders, which could lead to further cracking of the seat spreaders, causing injury to passengers or crew members during heavy turbulence in flight or in the event of an emergency landing.