Federal Register #2026-16566

FAA Proposed Airworthiness Directive for Airbus A318, A319, A320, and A321 Nose Landing Gear Inspection and Replacement

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), under the Department of Transportation, is proposing a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus SAS Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes to address safety concerns with the nose landing gear (NLG) sliding tube. - Government Buyer: - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) - Office: Aircraft Certification Service, Integrated Certificate Management Division - OEM Highlight: - Airbus SAS is the primary Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) affected by this directive - Products/Services Requested: - Special detailed inspection (SDI) of the NLG sliding tube for overheat damage and cracks - Replacement of the NLG sliding tube or shock absorber if defects are found - Prohibition on installation of affected or defective NLG sliding tubes - Technical and Notable Requirements: - Compliance with European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 20250258 procedures - Applies to all U.S.-registered Airbus A318, A319, A320, and A321 aircraft (estimated 1,981 units) - No specific part numbers or quantities provided; actions are based on inspection results - Estimated compliance cost is up to $765 per airplane - Ongoing maintenance and replacement as needed to prevent nose landing gear failure

Description

The FAA proposes a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus SAS Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes due to reports of overheat damage and cracks in the nose landing gear (NLG) sliding tube. The proposed AD requires a special detailed inspection (SDI) of the affected NLG sliding tube and replacement if necessary. It also prohibits the installation of affected parts to address the unsafe condition and prevent potential failure of the nose landing gear.

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