FAA Mandates Extra Inspections for Airbus Planes' Cracks
Published Date: 3/27/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
If you fly or work with certain Airbus A319, A320, and A321 planes, listen up! The FAA wants to keep checking and fixing a key part inside the plane that’s shown new cracks. They’re adding regular inspections and a final fix to keep everyone safe, with some planes no longer needing these checks. These changes might cost some time and money but are super important for safe skies.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
New repetitive inspections required
The FAA proposes to supersede AD 2016-14-03 and add repetitive inspections of structure at a certain frame, with applicable corrective actions, for specified Airbus Model A319, A320, and A321 airplanes (detailed model lists in the rule). These inspections respond to new crack findings in the area.
Existing reinforcement requirement remains
The proposed AD continues to require the actions in AD 2016-14-03, including reinforcing the forward pressure bulkhead at a specified stringer on both left- and right-hand sides and performing related investigative and corrective actions if necessary for the listed A319, A320, and A321 models.
Terminating action and narrowed applicability
The proposed AD would provide a terminating action for the new repetitive inspections (so inspections would stop after that action is completed) and would remove certain airplanes from the AD applicability as specified in the EASA AD proposed for incorporation by reference.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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