Airbus cargo doors must be inspected for cracks, or not open all the way

US aviation regulators propose new rules for older Airbus planes. These rules require inspections for cracks on main deck cargo doors, or limit how wide the doors can open.

Fatigue cracks on cargo doors are a known problem for these older Airbus models. This rule means operators must either fix the problem or accept a permanent operational limit. This is a common pattern in aviation: as planes age, regulators add new inspection or operational requirements to keep them flying safely.