Applicability: This Airworthiness Directive involves AIRBUS INDUSTRIE A300, A310 and A300-600 aircraft, all certified models, all serial numbers.

Effective date: Upon receipt.

Compliance: Required as indicated in DGAC AD 1999-268-292(B).

Remarks: Where applicable, the requirements of this AD must be integrated into the Aircraft's Logbook(s). Address inquiries concerning this AD to: Civil Aviation Authority, Airworthiness Division, Ruzyne Airport, 160 08 Prague 6, Czech Republic, tel.: 420 2 33320922, fax: 420 2 20562270.

Flight controls-Erratic rudder movement during approach (ATA 22)

This Airworthiness Directive involves AIRBUS INDUSTRIE A300, A310 and A300-600 aircraft, all certified models, all serial numbers.

This AD is prompted by an erratic rudder movement reported by one A300-600 operator.

First investigation on the auto pilot actuator revealed that the electrical connectors of the main electrovalve were cross connected between side 1 and side 2.

Under this condition which is a hidden failure, when combined with a failure of the clutch valve, the auto pilot actuator can generate erratic movements.

This scenario described for the yaw axis can also occur in roll and pitch because identical actuators are used on these axes.

To prevent any cross connection of the connectors of the main electrovalve on the yaw, roll and pitch

auto pilot actuator, accomplish the following unless already accomplished previously.

- Within 10 days following the effective date of this AD, perform a one time inspection of the main electrovalve connectors in accordance within the following AIRBUS INDUSTRIE " All Operator Telex " (AOT):

- for A300 aircraft: AOT A300-22A0114 dated May 27, 1999,

- for A310 aircraft: AOT A310-22A2050 dated May 27, 1999,

- for A300-600 aircraft: AOT A300-22A6039 dated May 27, 1999.

- If a cross connection is identified, restore the correct installation by swapping the connectors as described in paragraph 4.2 of the appropriate AOT before the next flight.

- Send inspection results to AIRBUS INDUSTRIE customer services whatever results are.

- for A300 aircraft: AOT A300-22A0114 dated May 27, 1999,

- for A310 aircraft: AOT A310-22A2050 dated May 27, 1999,

- for A300-600 aircraft: AOT A300-22A6039 dated May 27, 1999.

EFFECTIVE DATE: UPON RECEIPT FROM JUNE 30, 1999