Summary
This document proposes the supersedure of an existing airworthiness directive (AD), applicable to certain Airbus Model A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes, that currently requires a one-time ultrasonic inspection to detect disbonding of the skin attachments at the stringers and spars of the vertical stabilizer, and repair, if necessary. For certain airplanes, that AD also requires prior or concurrent modification of the vertical stabilizer to ensure proper reinforcement of its attachment to the skin. This action would require ultrasonic inspections of the subject area, and repair, as necessary. It would also require installation of fasteners to reinforce the bonds to the skin, which would terminate the repetitive inspections. This proposal is prompted by issuance of mandatory continuing airworthiness information by a foreign civil airworthiness authority. The actions specified by the proposed AD are necessary to prevent failure of the bonds of the vertical stabilizer spar boxes to the skin, which could lead to reduced structural integrity of the spar boxes.