Global A320 Recall Grounds Jetstar Flights, Sparks Airline Disruptions

Jetstar Airways, part of Qantas, has canceled flights due to an Airbus recall. The global issue affects over half of Airbus' A320 jets. Fixes are needed before flights can resume. The disruption highlights Jetstar's influence in the Australian market where Qantas holds 65% with Virgin at 35%.

Jetstar Airways, the budget wing of Australia's flagship carrier Qantas, announced cancellations on Saturday due to a massive Airbus A320 fleet recall. Airbus has mandated immediate repairs to 6,000 jets, creating global disturbances. The repair involves reverting to older software to ensure aircraft safety.

A representative from Jetstar confirmed the software issue affecting the A320 family, stating, 'Jetstar is impacted by an Airbus fleet software issue affecting global A320 operators.' In response, some Jetstar flights have been canceled to adhere to Airbus's precautionary measures.

Qantas, which along with Jetstar holds a commanding 65% share of Australia's domestic air market, stated their aircraft are unaffected. In contrast, Virgin Australia, which controls the remaining 35%, anticipated no impact. The Australian Broadcasting Corp noted considerable delays at Melbourne airport amid what is one of Airbus's largest recalls in 55 years, occurring shortly after the A320 became the most-delivered jet model, surpassing the Boeing 737.

(With inputs from agencies.)