AD FAA-2012-1036

We are superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. That AD currently requires installing spacer assemblies at the attachment points of the YZ-latches of the cargo loading system (CLS) in the forward and aft cargo compartments, as applicable. This new AD also requires modifying the attachment points of fixed YZ-latches of the CLS lower deck cargo holds on those airplanes on which one or both lower deck cargo holds have not been modified, which terminates the existing requirements. This AD was prompted by results from tests that have shown that the attachment points of the YZ-latches of the cargo loading system (CLS) fail under maximum loads and reports that installation has been applied only on one of the lower deck cargo holds, instead of on both forward and aft cargo holds, and that some airplanes could have installed the affected YZ-latches through the instructions of the cargo conversion manual. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the attachment points of the YZ-latches, which could result in unrestrained cargo causing damage to the fire protection system, hydraulic system, electrical wiring, or other equipment located in the forward and aft cargo compartments. This damage could adversely affect the continued safe flight of the airplane.