Airbus Recalls Fleet: Unveiling Space Weather's Aviation Impact

Airbus has recalled half of its global fleet due to altitude loss linked to solar flares affecting aircraft electronics. Experts question this analysis, citing no significant solar events on the incident date. The case underscores the growing importance of space weather on aviation safety.

An unprecedented recall by Airbus of about half of its global fleet is placing a spotlight on the crucial role of space weather in aviation safety. This move comes after a commercial plane experienced a dramatic altitude drop, which Airbus attributes to a powerful solar flare causing software damage.

The incident involved an Airbus A320 that unexpectedly lost altitude on October 30 during a Mexico-US flight, injuring 15 passengers. Airbus has linked this to intense solar radiation damaging flight software, though experts contest this by noting the absence of significant solar events on that date.

While space weather's impacts on aviation are acknowledged, and electronics are designed for such risks, this recall highlights potential oversights in understanding these cosmic effects. The event calls for more consideration towards space weather in flight operational safety.

(With inputs from agencies.)