The world’s airlines are facing a big problem. An emergency order requires them to fix a software issue in about 6,000 Airbus A320 planes. This is more than half of all the A320 planes flying worldwide. Because of this, many flights are being cancelled or delayed. This is happening during one of the busiest travel times of the year.
The problem is with the plane’s flight control computers. Strong solar radiation could affect them. This is a safety risk because these computers control important parts of the wings and tail. The order came after an incident with a JetBlue flight in October. Now, all airlines must fix the problem before they can use these planes.
This is a very difficult time for this to happen. It is the peak holiday season in Europe, North America, and Asia. About 350 airlines around the world are affected. The problem is especially big in Asia, where many airlines use the A320 for short flights.
Fixing the planes is not the same for everyone. Newer planes need a software update that takes about three hours. However, about 900 older planes need their computers completely replaced. This takes much longer and depends on having the right parts available.
In India, two major airlines, IndiGo and Air India, have had to cancel many flights. In Taiwan and Macao, many planes also need to be checked. Airbus says it is working as fast as possible to fix the problem. This situation shows that as planes become more modern and use more technology, they can face new kinds of problems.