Quick reads
- Airbus ordered an urgent software update for many A320-family jets after a flight-control incident, prompting a large recall.
- Roughly 6,000 A320-family aircraft worldwide may need checks or software changes; airlines expect delays.
- In India, about 338–350 A320s from carriers including IndiGo and Air India were identified as affected; many are being updated.
- Regulators and manufacturers say the change is necessary to guard against data corruption linked to intense solar radiation.
- Airlines warned of possible delays and longer turnarounds; most carriers are working overnight to complete fixes and return planes to service.
When did this happen?
Airbus issued the directive and technical alert on 28–29 November 2025 after reviewing an incident earlier this year. The notice went out immediately, and airlines began applying the required software/hardware changes that same weekend.
Where is it affecting flights?
The issue is global, Airbus says thousands of A320-family jets in service across Asia, Europe, North America and elsewhere may be impacted. In India, the DGCA-listed operators (notably IndiGo and the Air India Group) reported about 338–350 aircraft needing updates.
How did it happen / what is the technical problem?
Analysis of a recent A320-family event showed that intense solar radiation can corrupt certain flight-control data. Airbus therefore asked operators to revert or update affected software and, in some cases, perform brief hardware realignments so the aircraft meet safety standards before further flights. Regulators have mandated compliance to ensure safety.
Story in short
Airbus has ordered a large-scale software update for its A320 family of aircraft after finding that strong solar radiation could corrupt data used by flight-control systems. The company says the changes are needed to remove any risk and restore full safety margins.
The alert affects thousands of A320-type planes worldwide. Airlines and aviation authorities moved quickly: carriers began applying the software patches and checks immediately, and some flights faced delays while work was done. Airbus warned operators that this action could cause significant disruption but said it was necessary for safety.
In India, aviation bodies and carriers confirmed that around 338–350 A320-family aircraft from IndiGo, Air India and related operators were identified for the update. Indian regulators are monitoring the repair work; many jets were reported to have completed the update by the time of reporting, while others were scheduled for overnight fixes to minimise cancellations. Airlines asked passengers to expect delays and longer turnaround times over the affected weekend.
Officials say the software change is straightforward but must be done before the aircraft flies again. Carriers worldwide, from low-cost operators to major international airlines, are coordinating with Airbus and regulators to complete the work as fast and safely as possible. Passengers are advised to check with their airline for the latest status of specific flights.
