Airbus recall orders hit airlines worldwide after a flight-control incident raised safety concerns. Airbus asked carriers to install a new software update on many A320 jets before their next flight. The Airbus recall may disrupt travel plans during one of the busiest weekends of the year.
Airbus explained that intense solar radiation corrupted key flight-control data on an A320 aircraft. The issue forced a sharp loss of altitude on a JetBlue flight from Cancun to Newark on October 30. Several passengers were injured, and the jet made an emergency landing in Tampa. The FAA has opened an investigation into the Airbus recall case.
READ MORE:Airbus, Thales, Leonardo join forces to build European satellite giant
Airbus warned that the required update could cause delays and cancellations across many regions. The European regulator will also issue an emergency directive soon. Airlines must apply the fix immediately, which increases pressure on already busy repair shops.
Industry sources said about half of the global A320 fleet will need the software change. Most jets can return to service after a quick downgrade to an older software version. However, airlines already face limited maintenance capacity due to other grounded Airbus jets.
READ MORE:Airbus takes off with big order on first day of Dubai Airshow
Experts expect the Airbus recall to affect passengers for several days as airlines adjust schedules. The fix aims to prevent further flight-control failures and ensure safe operations for all A320 flights. Passengers are advised to check for updates as airlines manage disruptions caused by the Airbus recall.