Fuselage — Forward Fuselage Skin Panels — Inspection
Proposal for consultation. Not binding until EASA issues the final AD; the requirements can still change.
- Published
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of affected Airbus A319-153N, A320-251N/252N/271N, and A321-251NX/252NX/271NX/272NX aircraft must perform local thickness mapping and report findings within 14 days of the directive's effective date. A full visual inspection and thickness measurement must be completed within six months. Any cracks or thickness deviations require contacting Airbus for approved repairs before further flight. Dispatch restrictions under specified MMEL items apply until compliance.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive Proposal 25-196 is a regulatory document addressing inspection requirements for forward fuselage skin panels on specific Airbus A319, A320, and A321 aircraft models. It applies to certain serial numbers and targets panels with potential thickness deviations identified by an Airbus supplier. The directive mandates inspections and possible corrective actions to ensure structural integrity.
What changed
This new proposed airworthiness directive introduces mandatory one-time visual inspections and thickness measurements of affected forward fuselage panels. It also imposes restrictions on certain repairs and dispatch under specific MMEL items until inspections and any necessary repairs are completed. The directive requires reporting inspection results to Airbus and following additional instructions if provided.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for maintaining the structural safety of affected Airbus aircraft by identifying and correcting potential fuselage panel defects. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to prevent structural failures that could compromise flight safety. Compliance teams need to manage inspection schedules, reporting, and repair coordination to meet regulatory requirements and avoid operational disruptions.
More for Airbus A319
All 253- EASA PAD 26-123Fuselage – Forward Fuselage Skin Panels – InspectionOct 13, 2026
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