The walk-around inspection for an Airbus A320 is a systematic process to verify the aircraft's exterior condition and ensure airworthiness. Below is a detailed guide tailored to the A320.

Walk-Around Inspection Checklist for A320

1. Nose Section

• Radome:
  
  

  • Inspect for cracks, dents, or bird strikes.

  • Check for secure fasteners and no unauthorized openings.

• Windshield/Wipers:
  
  

  • Ensure wipers are in the parked position and free of damage.

  • Inspect for cracks or delamination on windshields.

• Pitot Probes, Static Ports, and AOA Sensors:
  
  

  • Ensure all sensors are clean, free of obstruction, and undamaged.

2. Nose Landing Gear

• Tires and Wheels:
  
  

  • Inspect for proper inflation, no cuts, bulges, or excessive wear.

• Shock Strut:
  
  

  • Verify proper extension and absence of hydraulic fluid leaks.

• Doors:
  
  

  • Ensure nose gear doors are properly aligned and free of damage.

• Taxi Lights:
  
  

  • Check for intact lenses and ensure lights are operational.

3. Left Wing (Start with this side)

• Leading Edge and Slats:
  
  

  • Inspect for dents, scratches, and bird strike evidence.

• Wing Surfaces:
  
  

  • Check for cracks, dents, or signs of delamination.

• Fuel Tank Area:
  
  

  • Look for leaks or fuel stains near panel seams and under the wing.

• Static Dischargers:
  
  

  • Ensure all static dischargers are present and intact.

• Navigation Lights:
  
  

  • Confirm lenses are clean and unbroken.

4. Left Engine (Engine #1)

• Fan Blades:
  
  

  • Inspect for nicks, cracks, or foreign object damage (FOD).

• Inlet and Cowling:
  
  

  • Check for dents, scratches, or signs of loose fasteners.

• Exhaust:
  
  

  • Ensure there is no discoloration or evidence of oil leaks.

• Pylon and Mounts:
  
  

  • Inspect for cracks or signs of structural stress.

5. Fuselage (Left Side)

• Doors and Emergency Exits:
  
  

  • Verify all doors are closed securely with seals intact.

• Fuselage Surface:
  
  

  • Look for cracks, dents, or visible signs of corrosion.

• Cargo Doors:
  
  

  • Check alignment, locking mechanisms, and seals.

6. Tail Section (Empennage)

• Horizontal and Vertical Stabilizers:
  
  

  • Inspect for dents, scratches, or delamination.

• Rudder and Elevators:
  
  

  • Verify hinges, actuators, and freedom of movement.

• Lights:
  
  

  • Confirm that tail and anti-collision lights are intact.

• APU Exhaust:
  
  

  • Check for signs of leaks, discoloration, or cracks.

7. Right Wing

• Repeat the checks conducted on the left wing:

  • Leading edge, surfaces, fuel tank area, static dischargers, and lights.

8. Right Engine (Engine #2)

• Repeat the checks conducted on the left engine:

  • Fan blades, inlet and cowling, exhaust, and pylon mounts.

9. Right Main Landing Gear

• Tires and Wheels:
  
  

  • Check for wear, cuts, or bulges.

• Shock Strut:
  
  

  • Ensure proper extension and absence of hydraulic leaks.

• Brakes and Hydraulic Lines:
  
  

  • Look for wear, leaks, or signs of overheating.

• Gear Doors:
  
  

  • Inspect for proper alignment and no visible damage.

10. General Underside Check

• Inspect for any fluid leaks, dents, or damage along the underside of the fuselage and wings.

• Verify the drain masts are clear and undamaged.

Common Questions for the A320 Walk-Around

1. What is the proper shock strut extension for the A320 landing gear?
   
   

   • Refer to the aircraft's maintenance manual (typically 2–4 inches visible, depending on load).

2. What would you do if you notice a small fluid leak during the inspection?
   
   

   • Report it in the technical log and consult with maintenance engineers.

3. Why are static dischargers important?
   
   

   • They dissipate static electricity, preventing interference with communication and navigation systems.

4. What are the key differences in walk-around procedures between A320 variants (e.g., A319, A321)?
   
   

   • The overall process is similar, but specific structural areas may differ based on fuselage length and weight distribution.

This systematic approach ensures that every critical component of the A320 is checked before flight, minimizing risks and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.