Airbus Nose Gears Cracking: FAA Demands Shop Checks
Published Date: 8/13/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus SAS Model A318 series airplanes; Model A319 series airplanes; Model A320 series airplanes; and Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, -232, -251N, -252N, -253N, -271N, -272N, - 251NX, -252NX, -253NX, -271NX, and -272NX airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of a certain nose landing gear (NLG) sliding tube having widespread overheat damage and multiple cracks on the base metal during shop visits. This proposed AD would require a special detailed inspection (SDI) of the affected NLG sliding tube and replacement, as applicable. This proposed AD would also prohibit the installation of affected parts. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
FAA cost estimates for U.S. operators
The FAA estimates the proposed AD would affect 1,981 U.S.-registered airplanes. An SDI would take up to 9 work-hours at $85/hour (up to $765 per airplane), for a U.S. fleet cost up to $1,515,465. If replacement is required, the FAA estimates on-condition costs of 31 work-hours ($2,635) plus parts ($100,627) totaling $103,262 per affected product; the manufacturer may cover some costs under warranty.
Mandatory NLG sliding-tube inspections
If you operate any of the listed Airbus A318, A319, A320, or A321 variants, the FAA would require a special detailed inspection (SDI) of the nose landing gear (NLG) sliding tube and replacement if needed. The proposed AD would require compliance with European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2025-0258 (dated November 21, 2025) for those actions.
Prohibition on installing affected parts
The proposed AD would prohibit installing any affected NLG sliding tube part and any higher assembly that has an affected part installed. This means operators and maintenance providers cannot return affected sliding tubes or assemblies to service.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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