AD NUMBER: 2012-08-02

PRODUCT: All Model A330-200 and -300 series airplanes; Model A330-223F and -243F airplanes; and Model A340-200, -300, -500, and -600 series airplanes.
SUBJECT: Airworthiness Directive 2012-08-02
ACTION: Final Rule

SUMMARY: This AD was prompted by a report that during the evaluation of engine failures at take-off on Airbus flight simulators, it has been shown that with flight control primary computer (FCPC) 1 inoperative, in worst case scenario when FCPC2 and FCPC3 resets occur during rotation at take off, a transient loss of elevator control associated with a temporary incorrect flight control law reconfiguration could occur. This AD requires revising the Limitations section of the applicable airplane flight manual. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent movement of the elevators to zero position, which could result in inducing a pitch down movement instead of a pitch up movement needed for lift off, resulting in loss of controllability of the airplane.

DATES: This AD becomes effective May 31, 2012.

FMI: AD