Have All Operational A320 Aircraft in India Received a Software Fix for Solar Radiation Risk?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, the DGCA has mandated a software upgrade for all operational Airbus A320 aircraft in India, ensuring they are safe from potential solar radiation risks. This includes a total of 323 aircraft from major airlines, reflecting stringent safety measures in aviation.
Key Takeaways
- All operational A320 aircraft in India upgraded.
- 323 aircraft from leading airlines received updates.
- Software fixes address solar radiation risks.
- Collaboration among engineering and safety teams ensured minimal disruption.
- DGCA confirms compliance with international safety standards.
New Delhi, Nov 30 (NationPress) The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) announced on Sunday that all airlines in India have successfully implemented the necessary software updates on their operational Airbus A320 family aircraft.
This initiative addresses a critical concern regarding the impact of intense solar radiation on flight-control data.
The regulator confirmed that a total of 323 A320-family aircraft operated by IndiGo, Air India, and Air India Express have been upgraded.
This includes all 200 IndiGo planes, 100 out of 113 from Air India, and 23 out of 25 Air India Express aircraft.
According to DGCA officials, four Air India planes are currently undergoing base maintenance and will be upgraded there, while nine others do not require this modification.
Additionally, two Air India Express aircraft are under maintenance and will soon be returned to their lessors.
This action follows a warning issued by Airbus on Friday, indicating that during significant solar events, such as solar flares, the Elevator and Aileron Computer (ELAC) may experience temporary malfunctions.
This computer is crucial for controlling the aircraft's movement and turning capabilities. If affected, the data it transmits to the aircraft’s control surfaces could be momentarily compromised.
While such incidents are rare, they could influence the aircraft's climbing, descending, or turning abilities.
In response to Airbus's alert, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) issued an Emergency Airworthiness Directive.
The DGCA followed suit on Saturday, mandating Indian carriers to execute the software upgrades promptly.
Air India Express stated on X that it had completed the necessary precautionary checks on its A320 fleet within the specified timelines.
The airline noted that effective collaboration among its engineering, operations, and flight-safety teams, along with support from Airbus and regulators, ensured that flight operations experienced minimal disruption.
With the upgrades finalized, DGCA officials confirmed that the entire operational A320 fleet in India complies with the latest international airworthiness standards.
Point of View
I affirm that the DGCA's decisive action to implement a software upgrade for all operational A320 aircraft in India reflects a proactive approach to aviation safety. This measure not only safeguards passengers but also reinforces national aviation standards in line with international practices.
NationPress
30/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the software upgrade for A320 aircraft?
The upgrade was prompted by a warning from Airbus regarding the potential impact of strong solar radiation on flight-control data.
How many A320 aircraft were affected by this software update?
A total of 323 A320-family aircraft operated by IndiGo, Air India, and Air India Express were affected by the software update.
Are all A320 aircraft in India now compliant with safety standards?
Yes, following the updates, all operational A320 aircraft in India are now compliant with the latest international airworthiness requirements.
