AD FAA-2012-0999

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A330-200 Freighter series airplanes, Model A330-200 series airplanes, Model A330-300 series airplanes, Model A340-200 series airplanes, and Model A340-300 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report of an in-flight turn back after the nose landing gear (NLG) did not retract after take-off. This AD requires repetitive overhaul of the NLG retraction actuator. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the retraction actuator, which could cause collapse of the NLG after touchdown and possible injury to flightcrew and passengers.