Ensuring the continued structural airworthiness of the Airbus A300 commercial transport aircraft

Abstract

After consideration of the original certification basis of the Airbus A300 commercial transport aircraft, this paper considers typical industry procedures for the justification of the original design service goal, during which the principal structure of the aircraft is reasonably free from significant fatigue cracking. The justification of aircraft life extension, or continued operation beyond design service goal, is then described, including the assessment of fatigue and corrosion damage accumulated during the service life of the aircraft, and the analysis of areas of the structure potentially susceptible to widespread fatigue damage. In addition, the paper discusses the use of preventative maintenance actions to ensure the continued safety of the aircraft during extended service.