Summary
This document proposes the supersedure of an existing airworthiness directive (AD), applicable to certain Airbus Model A300- 600 and A310 series airplanes, that currently requires repetitive visual inspections and tap tests of the rudder skin panels to detect disbonding; and repairs, if necessary. That AD was prompted by reports of weakening of the bonding material between the core of the rudder and its inner and outer skin, and cracking of the core. The proposed action would add repetitive elasticity laminate checker (ELCH) inspections of the rudder in place of the currently required tap tests. It also would require replacement of the rudder with a modified rudder, which would terminate the repetitive inspections. These actions are intended to detect and prevent disbonding of the rudder, which, if not corrected, could reduce the structural integrity of the rudder, and consequently lead to a reduction in its ability to sustain limit loads.