Airbus has identified a critical issue affecting approximately 6,000 aircraft in its A320 family. The malfunction was discovered following an alarming incident involving a JetBlue flight.
Details of the JetBlue Incident
In October, a JetBlue aircraft traveling from Mexico to the United States experienced a sudden altitude drop. The flight had to make an emergency landing. Reports indicated that between 15 and 20 passengers sustained minor injuries during the ordeal.
Investigations suggest that intense solar radiation interfered with data in a computer system essential for flight control.
Impact on Airbus Aircraft
As a result of this problem, Airbus has issued a modification request that affects the entire A320 family. This includes the A319 and A321 models.
Extent of the Problem
- Approximately 6,000 aircraft worldwide are potentially impacted.
- The majority can be remedied through a straightforward software update.
- About 900 older units will require computer replacements, necessitating their temporary grounding.
Steps Taken by Airbus
Airbus is taking proactive measures to mitigate further issues. The company aims to ensure that all affected aircraft receive the necessary updates or replacements.
With a focus on safety, Airbus emphasizes the importance of addressing any vulnerabilities in aircraft systems due to solar activity.
