by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 6:55 AM ET, Sat November 29, 2025
Thousands of Airbus aircraft were grounded worldwide on Friday after a critical software alert linked to solar radiation forced urgent inspections and updates.
The issue affected approximately 6,000 aircraft across Airbus’s A320 family — including A318, A319, A320 and A321 models — after the manufacturer discovered that intense bursts of solar radiation could corrupt flight-control computer data at high altitudes.
According to reporting from the BBC, a large number of the affected aircraft have already begun returning to normal service.
The discovery followed an October incident in which a JetBlue aircraft suddenly lost altitude and made an emergency landing, injuring at least 15 passengers.
Rapid Repairs Globally — but Older Aircraft Still Grounded
As reported by the BBC, the majority of aircraft required only a quick software update, with French Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot confirming “updates were already rolled out overnight on virtually all devices,” affecting more than 5,000 aircraft.
Reports say about 900 older planes require full computer replacements and will remain grounded until parts become available.
Airbus told local media that fewer than 100 aircraft still needed the software update as of Saturday morning.
International Operations See Mixed Disruptions
Air France experienced delays and cancellations at Paris Charles de Gaulle, while airlines in the U.S. — grappling with the recall amid the busy Thanksgiving travel period — saw varying levels of impact.
According to the reports:
- American Airlines said 340 aircraft were affected, with “some operational delays” expected. Most updates were being completed Friday and Saturday.
- Delta Air Lines anticipated a limited operational impact.
- EasyJet and Wizz Air reported that most aircraft were already updated and operations were normal.
- Jetstar in Australia cancelled 90 flights, with disruptions expected all weekend.
- UK airports saw limited issues, with Heathrow reporting no cancellations.
Minimal Impact Expected in Canada
In earlier reporting from CBC, Air Canada said that only a few of its aircraft use the affected software, and the airline does not expect significant operational fallout from the recall.
Aviation expert John Gradek told CBC the scale of the recall is “unprecedented”, noting that the speed of repairs will largely depend on where aircraft are positioned. But he added the industry is “unlikely to want these planes grounded for more than a few days.”
What’s Next
While global disruptions have eased quickly for most carriers, aircraft requiring full computer replacements could see extended downtime.
TravelPulse Canada will continue monitoring the situation and provide updates for Canadian travellers.
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