Federal Register #FAA-2026-8779

FAA Proposed Airworthiness Directive for Airbus SAS Nose Landing Gear Inspection and Replacement

This opportunity involves a proposed airworthiness directive from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for Airbus SAS Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. - Government Buyer: - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Aircraft Certification Service, Integrated Certificate Management Division - OEM Highlight: - Airbus SAS is the primary Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) referenced - Products/Services Requested: - Special detailed inspection (SDI) of the nose landing gear (NLG) sliding tube - Replacement of affected NLG sliding tubes or shock absorbers as necessary - Prohibition on installation of defective NLG sliding tubes - Technical Details: - Directive prompted by reports of widespread overheat damage and multiple cracks in the NLG sliding tube - Compliance procedures reference European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 20250258 - Estimated compliance cost is up to $765 per airplane, affecting 1,981 U.S.-registered aircraft - Unique Requirements: - Inspections and replacements must follow EASA AD 20250258 procedures - No specific part numbers or quantities provided; applies to all affected aircraft - Ongoing maintenance and replacement as needed to address unsafe conditions

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 multiple cracks in the nose landing gear sliding tube. The AD requires a special detailed inspection (SDI) of the affected nose landing gear sliding tube and replacement if necessary. It also prohibits the installation of affected parts to address the unsafe condition. Comments on the proposed AD are due by September 28, 2026.

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