Urgent Software Upgrades Amid Solar Radiation Alert: Impact on A320 Fleet

Airlines are upgrading software on A320 family planes following Airbus’s alert of potential data corruption from solar radiation affecting flight controls. The updates have led to flight delays, though not cancellations. With 338 aircraft affected, upgrades are underway with completion expected by November 30.

Airlines, including IndiGo, Air India, and Air India Express, are undertaking immediate software upgrades on A320 family aircraft to counter a potential flight control issue attributed to intense solar radiation, as warned by Airbus. This attempt to ensure safety has resulted in delays across hundreds of flights.

Sources reveal that while no flights have been canceled, delays are evident, averaging around 60-90 minutes at many airports. Airbus's insight into solar radiation potentially corrupting flight control data has necessitated prompt action, impacting 338 A320 family planes operated by Indian carriers.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) provided data indicating the completion of upgrades on 189 of the affected aircraft thus far. These critical modifications are scheduled to be finalized by November 30, underscoring the urgency of addressing this safety concern in domestic aviation.

(With inputs from agencies.)