Airbus has released an urgent worldwide warning after discovering that certain A320-series passenger jets could experience software malfunctions triggered by high levels of cosmic or solar radiation.
Engineers found that radiation spikes in the atmosphere can, in rare cases, disrupt data processed by one of the aircraft’s flight-control computers. The issue came to light after a recent incident in which an A320 experienced an unexpected altitude drop, prompting a deeper investigation into the aircraft’s onboard systems.
Airbus has directed airlines to install immediate software updates and, where necessary, implement additional hardware safeguards to prevent data corruption. Carriers operating the affected jets have been instructed to complete the fixes as soon as possible, with some aircraft expected to be temporarily grounded until updates are applied.
The company emphasized that addressing the flaw is essential to ensure full system reliability during periods of intense solar activity, which can interfere with sensitive electronic components at cruising altitude. Airline officials anticipate that complying with the new safety measures may result in schedule disruptions, but stressed that passenger safety remains the top priority.