Airworthiness Directives; ATR-GIE Avions de Transport Régional Airplanes

We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all ATR--GIE Avions de Transport R[eacute]gional Model ATR42 and ATR72 airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by new occurrences of certain cracked main landing gear (MLG) rear hinge pins. This proposed AD would require identifying the serial number and part number of the MLG rear hinge pins, and replacement of pins or the MLG if necessary. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct cracked rear hinge pins, which could lead to MLG structural failure, possibly resulting in collapse of the MLG and consequent injury to the occupants of the airplane.