Airbus has instructed airlines to implement an urgent software update for thousands of A320-family jets due to a bug that could lead to flight control issues.
The company revealed in a statement that an analysis of a recent incident uncovered a problem where “intense solar radiation may corrupt data crucial for flight control functionality” during solar flares.
This issue came to light after a JetBlue A320 experienced a sudden altitude drop while flying from Cancun International Airport (CUN) to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) on October 30, resulting in injuries to 15 passengers.
Approximately 6,000 aircraft worldwide are impacted, which represents just over half of the global A320 fleet. This model recently surpassed Boeing’s 737 as the most-delivered commercial aircraft in history. Currently, U.S. operators have 1,622 A320 jets in service, according to Cirium, although not all are affected by this directive.
The good news for airlines is that the fix is quick, which is beneficial as they prepare for the post-holiday travel rush following Thanksgiving. The software update takes around two hours.
American Airlines, the largest A320-family operator, reported that 209 of its jets are affected out of a total fleet of 475. A spokesperson indicated that as of 7 p.m. ET, fewer than 150 aircraft were awaiting the fix, with most expected to be completed by Saturday morning.
“Safety remains our highest priority, and we appreciate our customers’ understanding during this unforeseen event,” the spokesperson stated.
A source familiar with the situation, who wished to remain anonymous, indicated that any anticipated disruption to passenger service would be “minimal.”
Delta Air Lines, operating 305 A320-family jets, expects the number of impacted planes to remain low. It identified fewer than 50 A321neo aircraft requiring the update and plans to complete the installation by Saturday morning, anticipating limited operational impact.
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United Airlines operates 201 A320-family jets but confirmed to Flying Frugal that only six planes were affected and it does not anticipate any schedule disruptions.
JetBlue, which operates 220 of these aircraft, has not yet responded to a request for comment.
While the impact on U.S. carriers may be limited, airlines in other regions faced more significant challenges. Colombia’s Avianca reported that over 70% of its fleet was affected, leading to a halt in ticket sales for travel through December 8.
Despite the relatively minimal impact on major U.S. airlines, this issue arises during one of the busiest travel periods of the year as Americans return home post-Thanksgiving.
As always, check your flight status in your airline’s app for the latest updates and keep an eye on Flying Frugal for news on potential travel disruptions related to this situation.
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