A319
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP); Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Instrument
Flight Crew Total 3
Communication Breakdown
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy; Flight Deck / Cabin / Aircraft Event Illness / Injury; Flight Deck / Cabin / Aircraft Event Smoke / Fire / Fumes / Odor
General Work Refused; General Flight Cancelled / Delayed; General Maintenance Action
Aircraft
After arriving at our destination gate; the flight attendants advised us of a strong odor / fumes in the back of the aircraft. The Captain and I independently verified the presence of the odor and the Captain offered to request medical assistance; which the flight attendants declined. The Captain then entered odor/fumes into the AML and completed the Aircraft Smoke; Odor and Fumes Report. Maintenance believed the fumes were coming from the APU and asked us to do an external air start (no APU) to help confirm this; which we complied with in accordance with FOM procedures. The Captain also consulted with the Duty Pilot to ensure legality of performing the engine (troubleshooting). Station Ops came onboard the aircraft just prior to engine start and sprayed a very strong air freshener in the cabin - even though I specifically asked them not to do that. The external air start was unsuccessful due to insufficient air pressure. Additionally; the overwhelming smell of air freshener made it impossible to determine whether fumes would be present and we decided the safest course of action was to exit the aircraft and not continue with additional engine starts attempts.
A319 First Officer reported being notified by the cabin crew of 'strong odor' in the passenger cabin upon arrival at destination. Maintenance was requested.