AD FAA-2012-1034

We are superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. That AD currently requires one-time and repetitive inspections of specific areas and, when necessary, corrective actions for those rudders where production rework has been identified. This new AD adds airplanes with certain rudders to the AD applicability; changes an inspection type for certain reinforced rudder areas; requires pre- inspections and repairs if needed; and requires permanent restoration of vacuum loss holes. This AD also requires additional inspections for certain rudders and repair if needed, and requires replacement of certain rudders with new rudders. This AD was prompted by reports of surface defects on rudders that were the result of debonding between the skin and honeycomb core. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct extended de-bonding, which might degrade the structural integrity of the rudder. The loss of the rudder leads to degradation of the handling qualities and reduces the controllability of the airplane.