How to Use an Illustrated Parts Catalog (IPC) to Find Airbus A320 Parts

This is a situation that every aeroplane mechanic has encountered: a work order requests a part, and the only information provided is a sketch and a figure number. The document that converts that drawing into an orderable part number is called the illustrated parts catalogue, or IPC. Using the Airbus A320 as an example, this guide describes the structure of an IPC, how it links to ATA chapters, and how to navigate from a catalogue page to a quotation.

What Is an Illustrated Parts Catalog?

The manufacturer's catalogue of all the aircraft's replacement parts is called an IPC. It employs exploded illustrations that demonstrate how assemblies go together, with each component connected to a numbered callout, in place of a simple list. The information you need to order, including part numbers, descriptions, and quantities for each assembly, is listed next to the drawing in a parts list.

The components by IPC listing shows the aircraft covered and allows you to go directly to the one you need if you want a fast overview of how aircraft types and their catalogues are arranged.

How an IPC Is Organized

Catalogs follow a consistent structure, which makes them easier to navigate once you know the pattern:

• ATA chapter and section. The catalog is divided by system, so you start by choosing the right chapter, such as cabin furnishings or landing gear.
• Figures. Each figure is a drawing of one assembly. The figure number tells you which page to open.
• Item numbers. Callouts on the drawing link to rows in the parts list.
• Parts list. Each row gives the part number, a description, and the quantity used per assembly.
• Effectivity. Notes show which aircraft, serial ranges, or configurations a part applies to.

Because the catalog follows the ATA system, it helps to know how the chapters are arranged. The ATA chapter parts directory groups parts the same way, so the logic carries over from the manual to your search.

A Step-by-Step Example

Say you have a work order that points to a figure and item number on an A320. Here is how to turn that into a purchase request:

1. Open the right chapter and figure. Use the ATA reference on the work order to find the correct section.
2. Match the callout. Find the item number on the drawing, then read across to the parts list.
3. Copy the full part number. Include every prefix, suffix, and dash. A single character can change the revision or finish.
4. Check effectivity. Make sure the part applies to your aircraft’s serial number and configuration.
5. Look for supersessions or alternates. The catalog often notes newer or interchangeable part numbers.
6. Request a quote. Send the part number, quantity, and the date you need it.

For an example of how a part number appears once it reaches a supplier’s database, see the listing for D2557221403600 on the Airbus A320. Each listing like this pairs the part number and aircraft model with a quote form, so you can go straight from catalog to request.

OEM Parts and PMA Alternatives

The original manufacturer's part is typically referred to by catalogue part numbers. PMA (components Manufacturer Approval) alternatives, which are FAA-approved components manufactured by a different company than the original manufacturer, are also available in some situations. They may provide a different lead time or price, but you must make sure that your operator or customer has approved and accepted the option for your aircraft. For example, suppliers list the Airbus A320 PMA parts individually so you can compare options side by side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ordering from the wrong effectivity. The right figure but the wrong serial range is one of the most common errors.
• Dropping characters from the part number. Copy it exactly as shown.
• Ignoring quantity per assembly. The parts list shows how many are used on one assembly, which affects how many you need.
• Skipping documentation. Ask for traceability paperwork with every order, especially for safety-related parts.

Choosing a Supplier

When a part is hard to find, the supplier matters as much as the catalog. Look for AS9120B and ISO 9001:2015 certification, traceable documentation, and a quick quoting process. Fulfillment Matrix offers quotes within 15 minutes and works with these requirements in mind, which helps when an aircraft is on the ground and every hour counts.

Final Thoughts

Although an illustrated parts catalogue appears complex at first, it actually follows a straightforward sequence: ATA chapter, figure, item number, part number. Finding and citing a portion becomes second nature once you can follow that chain. Once you have the part number, let the supplier take care of the rest and send it along with your quantity and delivery date.