Airbus solves the A320 problem after modifying nearly 6,000 aircraft

BarcelonaAirbus reported on Monday that the necessary modifications have already been made to most of the aircraft. 6,000 A320 family aircraft potentially affected by a problem which could cause flight controls to malfunction. Specifically, the aircraft manufacturer warned on Friday that, following an incident, it had been detected that intense solar radiation could corrupt data critical to the operation of the A320 aircraft's flight controls. After detecting this problem, Airbus asked operators to take immediate preventative measures to implement available software or hardware protection and ensure fleet safety. This Monday, the aircraft manufacturer reported that, of a total of approximately 6,000 aircraft potentially affected by this issue, the vast majority have already received the necessary modifications. "We are working with our airline customers to support the modification of the remaining fewer than 100 aircraft and ensure they can return to service," the company added. Airbus apologized for the difficulties and delays caused to passengers and airlines by this incident. "The company thanks its customers, the authorities, its employees, and all stakeholders for their support in implementing these measures, as well as their understanding of Airbus's decision to prioritize safety above all other considerations," it emphasized.

Delays and cancellations

Airlines such as American AirlinesAir India, Hungary's Wizz Air, and Air New Zealand all reported delays, disruptions, and cancellations on Saturday following an Airbus warning. This flight software error was first detected on October 30 on a JetBlue flight between Cancún, Mexico, and Newark, New Jersey, forcing an emergency landing in Tampa, Florida, after the aircraft lost control. On Friday, Airbus stated that most repairs would be straightforward and that the impact on its customers' operations would be limited. Even the aircraft used by Pope Leo XIV on his first official trip to Turkey and Lebanon was affected by the problem.