If you’re flying this holiday season, you might hear about software updates for one of the most common passenger aircraft in the world: the Airbus A320 family, which includes the A319, A320 and A321. Airbus confirmed in a statement on Friday that approximately 6,000 in-service aircraft will require an immediate software and/or hardware update after researchers discovered a rare error in flight control data due to intense solar radiation during a recent event.
According to Airbus, the analysis showed that a surge of solar activity – the kind that can disrupt GPS signals and satellites – can in rare cases damage data crucial to an aircraft’s flight control computers. The company has issued an Alert Operators Transmission (AOT) calling on airlines to carry out precautionary upgrades immediately. Aviation regulators, including EASA, are expected to follow suit with an emergency airworthiness directive.
The statement reads in full:
“An analysis of a recent event involving an A320 family aircraft has shown that intense solar radiation can damage data critical to the functioning of flight controls.
Airbus has therefore identified a significant number of A320 family aircraft currently in service that may be affected.
Airbus has proactively worked with aviation authorities to request immediate precautionary measures from airlines through an Alert Operators Transmission (AOT) to implement available software and/or hardware protection and ensure the fleet can fly safely. This AOT will be reflected in an emergency airworthiness directive from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
Airbus acknowledges that these recommendations will lead to operational disruptions for passengers and customers. We apologize for any inconvenience caused and will work closely with the operators, with safety remaining our top priority.”
The issue won’t affect every A320 aircraft, The New York Times reports, but about 6,000 aircraft are affected worldwide. “In most cases, the problem can be resolved relatively quickly by reverting to an earlier software version,” the Times report said. But “about 1,000 older aircraft will require new hardware to be installed, and that will take more time.”
For travelers this is the most important conclusion: This is a precaution and not an indication that A320s are unsafe. These planes carry millions of passengers every week and repairs are already underway. However, airlines may have to take aircraft out of circulation for a short time to install updates may mean some delays, cancellations or aircraft changes – especially during the already busy holiday season.
Airbus acknowledged the potential for disruption – with apologies – and stressed that safety remains its main priority.
If you’re traveling in the coming weeks, it’s worth keeping a close eye on your reservation, turning on airline app alerts and allowing some extra buffer time at the airport.
