Proposed ADEASA PAD 26-132

Placards and Markings - Main Deck Cargo Door Operation Limitation - Installation; Doors – Main Deck Cargo Door Actuator Bearing Fittings – Inspection / Opening Prohibition

Proposal for consultation. Not binding until EASA issues the final AD; the requirements can still change.

Published: Nov 4, 2026

AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.

What to do

Affected operators must install the MDCD opening limitation placard within 13,000 flight cycles since first installation or within 330 flight cycles after the AD’s effective date, whichever is later. They must also perform detailed visual inspections at specified intervals and comply with opening prohibitions related to wind speed and door opening angles. Any cracks found during inspections require contacting Airbus for corrective actions before further flight.

Summary

EASA Airworthiness Directive Proposal PAD No. 26-132 addresses the installation of placards and inspection requirements related to the main deck cargo door (MDCD) actuator bearing fittings on Airbus A300-600 and A310 freighter aircraft models. This directive applies specifically to Airbus A300 C4-605R Variant F, A300 F4-605R, A300 F4-622R, A310-304, A310-308, A310-324, and certain modified A300B4 variants converted to freighters. It mandates operational limitations and inspection procedures to prevent potential cargo door actuator failures.

What changed

This new proposed Airworthiness Directive introduces mandatory installation of placards limiting the MDCD opening angle and requires repetitive detailed visual inspections of the MDCD actuator bearing fittings. It also prohibits opening the cargo door under certain wind conditions and restricts opening beyond 70 degrees unless authorized by Airbus. These measures are introduced following findings of fatigue cracks in the actuator fittings.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk that could lead to uncontrolled cargo door movement, potentially causing injury on the ground. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to ensure continued airworthiness and safe cargo door operations. The directive also clarifies inspection intervals and operational limitations, aiding compliance and risk mitigation.

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