SUMMARY:
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Lockheed Model 382,
382B, 382E, 382F, and 382G series airplanes. This AD requires an inspection to identify discrepant
barrel nuts in the upper wing joint, engine truss, and rear beam pylon support; and replacement of any
discrepant barrel nut with a new barrel nut, if necessary. This AD results from a report of severe
cracking of multiple barrel nuts in the wing station (WS) 220 upper wing joint found during
scheduled maintenance. We are issuing this AD to prevent cracking of the barrel nuts in the upper
wing joint, engine truss, and rear beam pylon support, which could result in reduced structural
integrity of the affected part and consequent detachment of the wing or engine from the airplane.
DATES:
This AD is effective June 4, 2009.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain
publication listed in the AD as of June 4, 2009.
We must receive comments on this AD by July 20, 2009.
This was just released by the FAA today and arrived in my email 30 mins ago ( coincidence or this accident accelerated the release ? )
From the BBC link in the post above
Another local said nuts and bolts also fell from the sky.
One survivor said it felt like the plane's engines just stopped and then the aircraft began to break apart in mid-air