Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330-243, -341, -342, and -343 Airplanes Equipped with Rolls-Royce RB211 TRENT 700 Engines

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The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A330-243, -341, -342, and -343 airplanes equipped with Rolls-Royce RB211 TRENT 700 engines. This AD requires modifying the cowl assemblies of the left- and right-hand thrust reversers. This AD results from a review of certification tests of the thrust reverser, which revealed that certain structural components within the C-duct need strengthening to meet high fatigue loads and maintain structural integrity. We are issuing this AD to prevent fatigue cracking of the hinges integrated into the 12 o'clock beam of the thrust reversers, which could result in separation of a thrust reverser from the airplane, and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane.