Opportunity
Federal Register #FAA-2026-3879
FAA Proposed Airworthiness Directive for Airbus A320 and A321 Aircraft Bulk Cargo Door Inspections
Buyer
Federal Aviation Administration
Posted
May 04, 2026
Respond By
June 18, 2026
Identifier
FAA-2026-3879
NAICS
488190
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is proposing a new airworthiness directive (AD) targeting certain Airbus SAS A320 and A321 aircraft models to address structural integrity concerns. - Government Buyer: - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch - OEM Highlight: - Airbus SAS is the primary Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) referenced - Products/Services Requested: - Rototest inspection for cracks in the forward and aft upper corners of the bulk cargo door (sections 16 and 17, both left-hand and right-hand sides) - On-condition actions: If cracks are detected, repairs or modifications must be performed as specified by EASA AD 2025-0193 - Estimated 1,069 U.S.-registered Airbus A320 and A321 airplanes affected - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Compliance with European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2025-0193 is mandatory - If cracks are found, operators must contact Airbus SAS for repair instructions and perform repairs or modifications accordingly - The directive is based on fatigue test findings revealing cracks in the bulk cargo door - No specific part numbers or physical products are being procured; the focus is on inspection and maintenance services - Locations: - FAA Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198 (contracting/government office) - European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany (referenced for compliance)
Description
The FAA proposes a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus SAS Model A320 and A321 airplanes due to cracks identified in the forward and aft upper corner of the bulk cargo door from a fatigue test. The AD requires a rototest inspection for cracks and applicable on-condition actions such as repairs or modifications. This action aims to address the unsafe condition that could affect the structural integrity of the airplanes. Comments on the proposed AD are due by June 18, 2026.