Airbus, the European plane manufacturer, has announced the withdrawal of over 6,000 of its A320-family aircraft for urgent modifications. This move is expected to cause significant disruptions to flights globally, as the affected planes represent about half of Airbus’s global fleet. The decision comes after the company discovered that intense radiation from the sun could corrupt crucial flight control data.
According to reports, the issue was identified after a JetBlue aircraft experienced a “sudden drop in altitude” while en route to the United States from Mexico. As a result, Airbus has requested the immediate withdrawal of the affected aircraft to carry out necessary software updates. Some of the planes will only require a brief software update, while others may need more extensive modifications.
The withdrawal is likely to affect several major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, and United Airlines, which operate a large number of A320 models. The disruption coincides with a major holiday weekend in the US, which may exacerbate the impact on travelers. So far, disruptions at UK airports have been limited, but several airlines worldwide have reported cancellations.
In Nigeria, the recall is unlikely to affect major airlines, as most operate Boeing, Embraer, ATR, or Bombardier aircraft. However, United Nigeria Airlines and Ibom Air, which operate Airbus models, have confirmed that their aircraft are not among those being recalled. United Nigeria Airlines spokesperson Chibuike Uloka stated that their Airbus A320 is not affected, while Ibom Air spokesperson Annie Essienette confirmed that their A220 model is not part of the recall.
Experts have warned that flights can be affected by coronal mass ejections, which occur when plasma is ejected from the sun into space. Former Qantas captain Ian Getley explained that these events can interfere with aircraft electronics, particularly above 28,000 feet. The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has not commented on the issue, despite efforts to reach their spokesperson.
The recall highlights the importance of ensuring the safety and reliability of aircraft, particularly in the face of potential external threats such as solar radiation. As the situation develops, airlines and regulatory bodies will need to work together to minimize disruptions and ensure the safe operation of flights.