AD FAA-2012-1227

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Embraer S.A. Model ERJ 190 airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of cracks on the side stay of the main landing gear (MLG). This AD requires repetitive measurements of the left-hand (LH) and right-hand (RH) MLG side stay support fitting to detect bushing migration, and eventual replacement of the bushing; and a detailed inspection for damage on the LH and RH MLG side stay support assembly, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. We are issuing this AD to prevent excessive bearing friction, which might compromise the MLG free fall extension and cause fatigue cracking on the MLG side stay and on its support assembly, resulting in reduced structural integrity of the MLG.