AD FAA-2012-1163

We are superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A330-200 and -300 series airplanes; and Model A340-200, -300, -500, and -600 series airplanes. That AD currently requires a one-time detailed inspection of both main landing gear (MLG) bogie beams in the region of the bogie stop pad for detection of deformation and damage, and corrective actions if necessary. This new AD adds Model A330-200 Freighter series airplanes to the applicability. For certain airplanes, this new AD also adds repetitive inspections for damage and corrosion of the sliding piston sub-assembly, with new related investigative and corrective actions. This AD was prompted by reports of corroded bogie stop pads, including some with cracking. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct deformation or damage under the bogie stop pad of both MLG bogie beams, which could result in a damaged bogie beam and consequent detachment of the beam from the airplane or collapse of the MLG and departure of the airplane from the runway.