Key Takeaways
- Airbus issued a software alert for potential solar radiation risk affecting A320 fleet
- Indian airlines confirm no flight cancellations, but minor delays possible
- DGCA directs grounding of non-compliant aircraft until software update completed
- Safety risk considered very low as updates are proactive measures
Major Indian airlines IndiGo and Air India have confirmed no flight cancellations despite ongoing software updates for their Airbus A320 fleet following a global safety alert. Both carriers report significant progress in implementing required modifications, with only minimal delays expected for passengers.
Airlines Respond to Airbus Software Alert
Aircraft manufacturer Airbus flagged a potential solar radiation risk on November 29 that could corrupt flight control data in approximately 6,000 A320 aircraft worldwide. The issue requires airlines to roll back to previous software versions before aircraft can be cleared for operation.
According to industry sources, 200-250 aircraft in India are affected by the mandatory update.
IndiGo’s Progress Update
IndiGo confirmed it identified 200 aircraft requiring inspections and updates in accordance with EASA and Airbus directives.
“IndiGo is undertaking all required inspections and updates to its A320 family aircraft in full accordance with directives issued by EASA and Airbus. Working closely with both organisations, a total of 200 of our aircraft were identified for these checks,” the airline said.
The airline reported completing required actions on 160 aircraft by 12:00 IST and expects to finish remaining inspections within the timeline. While no flights have been cancelled, passengers might experience minimal delays.
Air India’s Statement
Air India made similar assurances, noting that over 40% of affected aircraft have already completed the software/hardware realignment process.
“Air India can confirm that there have been no cancellations due to this task and there isn’t any major impact on schedule integrity across our network. However, some of our flights may be slightly delayed or rescheduled. Our colleagues on ground are there to assist the passengers,” Air India said on X.
Air India Express also acknowledged that global guidance would cause some delays, though most of its fleet remains unaffected. Notably, Akasa Air and SpiceJet operate no Airbus aircraft in their fleets.
DGCA’s Safety Directive
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has banned the use of multiple Airbus aircraft models until they complete the required software updates. The directive covers 338 jets, with 189 aircraft (56%) already upgraded by Saturday afternoon.
Affected models include various versions of A319, A320, and A321 aircraft. The authority mandates that all potentially impacted aircraft must complete software/hardware updates and mandatory inspections before returning to service.
Passenger Safety Assurance
Aviation authorities emphasize that safety risks remain very low since updates address a potential issue identified proactively. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) requires airlines to install serviceable Elevator Aileron Computers (ELAC) in affected aircraft.
The compliance deadline for Indian carriers is 5:30 am on November 30. All aircraft must complete the ELAC upgrade or remain grounded until modifications are certified. With domestic airlines nearing completion of the process, delays are expected to taper off by the deadline.
