Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a report of a rupture of a main landing gear (MLG) sliding tube axle. This proposed AD would require an inspection to identify the part number and serial number of the MLG sliding tubes installed on the airplane; and an inspection of the axle on certain MLG sliding tubes for burned areas, and replacement of the sliding tube if necessary. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct cracks in the axle and (partial) detachment of the axle and wheel from the sliding tube, which could result in failure of an MLG.