Solar Radiation Causes Grounding of Thousands of Airbus Planes Worldwide

Sun Nov 30 2025 01:16:34 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Intense solar radiation has been identified as a potential threat to Airbus flight control systems, leading to the grounding of approximately 6,000 A320 aircraft and ancillary models globally.

Following the discovery that intense solar radiation can interfere with Airbus flight control systems, approximately 6,000 A320 planes have been grounded. Most of these aircraft are expected to return to service after a software update, but older models will require more extensive repairs. The UK's aviation regulator has acknowledged potential disruptions and cancellations, although the impact at major airports appears limited. This unprecedented event highlights the vulnerabilities of modern aircraft systems.

Thousands of Airbus planes have been grounded after it was discovered that intense solar radiation could interfere with onboard flight control computers, leading to delays around the world.

Around 6,000 A320 planes are thought to be affected, half the European firm's global fleet, but it is understood most will be able to fly again after undergoing a quick software update.

The UK's aviation regulator stated there would be some disruption and cancellations to flights though the overall impact at airports appears limited.

Airbus announced it discovered the issue after an investigation into a serious incident in which a plane lost altitude during a flight between the US and Mexico in October, resulting in injuries and an emergency landing.

While most affected A320 aircraft can be corrected through a relatively simple software update expected to take about three hours, approximately 900 older models will require more extensive repairs, which could result in prolonged delays.

Reports indicate that the grounding will affect airlines globally, including American Airlines and Jetstar Airways, with many airlines already initiating software updates to mitigate disruption during the busy travel period surrounding Thanksgiving.

The seriousness of this issue and the rapid response from Airbus underscore the complexities and vulnerabilities inherent in modern aviation technology.