FAA Proposes Fix for Airbus Engine Fire Switch Failures
Published Date: 9/3/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus SAS Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of one engine fire switch self-releasing, causing an uncommanded in-flight shut down to one engine. This proposed AD would require, for certain airplanes, replacement of certain fire panels, and for certain other airplanes, a general visual inspection of certain fire panels, and applicable on- condition actions. This proposed AD would also limit the installation of affected parts under certain conditions.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory Fire-Panel Inspections and Replacements
The FAA proposes a new airworthiness directive that would require certain Airbus A318, A319, A320, and A321 airplanes to have specified fire panels replaced, and other airplanes to receive a general visual inspection of those fire panels with on‑condition actions. The rule would incorporate EASA AD 2025-0274R1 (dated July 7, 2026) by reference and would also limit installation of affected parts under certain conditions to address reports of engine fire switches self-releasing and causing uncommanded in‑flight engine shutdowns.
Estimated Compliance Costs and Paperwork Burden
The FAA estimates the proposed AD would affect 1,996 U.S.-registered airplanes. Estimated per-aircraft costs include $13,352 for replacement (for 125 airplanes), up to $595 for inspection (for 1,871 airplanes), and $85 for reporting (1 hour) per response; total estimated costs shown are $1,669,290 for replacements, up to $1,113,245 for inspections, and $159,035 for reporting. The Paperwork Reduction Act burden for reporting uses OMB Control Number 2120-0056 and is estimated at about 1 hour per response.
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