AD FAA-2012-0493

We are superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A318-111 and -112 airplanes; and all Model A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. That AD currently requires revising the Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) of the Instructions for Continued Airworthiness to incorporate new limitations for fuel tank systems. This new AD requires revising the maintenance program to incorporate revised fuel maintenance and inspection tasks, and adds airplanes to the applicability. This AD was prompted by Airbus issuing more restrictive maintenance requirements and/or airworthiness limitations. We are issuing this AD to prevent the potential of ignition sources inside fuel tanks, which, in combination with flammable fuel vapors, could result in a fuel tank explosion and consequent loss of the airplane.