Airbus ordered an immediate upgrade of software in the A320 fleet and asked operators to, as a precaution, “immediately suspend their flights”, a measure that should affect companies on several continents and which includes aircraft used by TAP Air Portugal. The request comes after the investigation into an incident that occurred at the end of October, associated with possible system failures caused by intense solar radiation.
According to SIC Notícias, the decision involves more than 6,000 A320 family aircraft, which have already received instructions for urgent implementation of the update. The recommendation was issued after a JetBlue plane, en route between Cancún and Newark, was forced to land in Tampa following incorrect readings in control data.
The impact on air operations
According to the same source, this is a procedure with immediate effects, especially in the North American market, where this model is widely used. The dates coincide with one of the busiest annual weekends, a scenario that could worsen delays and route changes. Airbus recognizes that the decision will cause disruption and that the priority is to ensure operational safety.
In the Portuguese case, the problem should mainly affect the A320-neo, although the measure may also extend to the CEO, 20 and 21, currently in service with the national carrier. TAP has already spoken out, guaranteeing that it is monitoring the process and that it maintains safety on board as its main criterion.
TAP observes, ANA prepares
The publication adds that the company stated that it is monitoring each technical and operational phase, recommending that passengers pay attention to official flight updates. Azores Airlines, also using this model, has not yet released its position.
ANA Aeroportos contacted operators to assess potential impacts on the schedule for the next few days. The management entity advises anyone who has trips scheduled to wait for direct instructions from the companies.
A320 overtakes Boeing but faces temporary braking
It explains why the A320 has been, since September, the most produced single-aisle aircraft in the world, surpassing the Boeing 737, the model that led deliveries for decades. The Airbus family has produced 12,257 units, compared to 12,254 for the North American manufacturer.
The technical note issued by Airbus should remain active until the update is completed globally. Only after full validation will full normal operations be resumed, a stage that will depend on the companies’ ability to implement the software.
Also read:
