Originally Posted by
A Squared
What caused the loss of AA587's vertical stabilizer was not a full scale rudder deflection, but an abrupt reversal of the rudder from near full scale one direction, changing rapidly to near full scale deflection the opposite direction. That is completely different scenario whcih imposes higher loads than a single full scale deflection, and is beyond the transport category certification standards. The vertical stabilizer in the A300, like all transport category aircraft, was designed to withstand the loads imposed by a *single* full scale rudder deflection, and there is no evidence whcih suggests that would have caused failure of the vertical stabilizer.
Yes I have read the report. But you don't apply full rudder deflection in commercial jets. Especially Airbus it is recommended only to keep it straight during takeoff and landing or during engine failures. You don't do any fancy side slips.