GCAA confirms Airbus A320 checks across UAE airlines amid global safety alert
Software and hardware updates affect aircraft schedules internationally
ABU DHABI – The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority has confirmed that mandatory inspections and safety maintenance are underway on Airbus A320 aircraft operated by UAE national carriers.
This follows an Emergency Airworthiness Directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, requiring airlines worldwide to conduct software and, in some cases, hardware updates to mitigate a potential risk affecting flight control systems. The authority said it is working in close coordination with EASA, Airbus, and local operators to ensure full compliance with the requirements and to maintain uninterrupted operations across the country’s airports.
The directive impacts up to 6,000 Airbus A320 family aircraft globally, with airlines addressing software issues that can emerge due to intense solar radiation interference. While most aircraft require only a three-hour software update, approximately 900 older models must undergo hardware replacement before resuming commercial flights. The situation follows an incident involving a JetBlue Airbus A320, which experienced an uncommanded altitude drop in October, triggering further investigation by regulators.
Safety measures
UAE carriers have confirmed their commitment to implementing the required inspections swiftly. The GCAA said operators are also updating their maintenance protocols to align with the latest technical advisories issued by Airbus. The aim is to ensure that all necessary updates are applied promptly, safeguarding operational safety and preventing any major disruption to schedules.
The UAE’s oversight framework ensures carriers apply manufacturer-recommended modifications and maintain rigorous safety monitoring in line with international aviation standards.
Regional response
Etihad Airways confirmed that its A320 operations have returned to normal after completing the mandated software installation during one of the busiest travel weekends at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport. Air Arabia also began implementing the required updates, expecting full compliance by the end of the day while minimising inconvenience for passengers.
Statement Regarding Airbus A320 Advisory
— Air Arabia (@airarabiagroup) November 29, 2025
We confirm that we have received the directive issued by Airbus concerning the A320 aircraft type operated by airlines worldwide, which requires a number of aircraft to undergo specific software and technical updates.
In line with this…
In Bahrain, Gulf Air has completed the necessary software work on its Airbus A320 fleet, declaring its operations to be back on schedule after fully implementing the Airbus-directed updates.
Other regional carriers, including Flynas and Saudia, are also assessing the operational impact, with some flights experiencing longer turnaround times due to safety compliance measures.
Flights schedule
Airlines across Europe, Asia, and the Americas have reported varying degrees of disruption. France reported an almost complete return to normal operations, while Lufthansa completed most updates overnight with only minor delays expected. British Airways required updates on three aircraft, while EasyJet warned of possible schedule adjustments. In the United States, around 209 American Airlines aircraft were affected, with updates completed or scheduled, while United Airlines identified six jets requiring attention.
In the Asia-Pacific region, Japan’s All Nippon Airways cancelled 65 domestic flights, affecting approximately 9,400 passengers. Air India has updated 40% of its 113 affected aircraft and expects only minor delays, while IndiGo has completed mandatory work on 160 out of 200 aircraft, ensuring minimal disruption. Philippine carriers grounded several domestic services, offering refunds, rebookings, or travel credits to affected passengers.
Apology from Airbus CEO
The issue is linked to the Elevator Aileron Computer, a critical component in aircraft flight control systems. Regulators have warned that excessive solar radiation exposure could corrupt ELAC data during system switching, potentially affecting aircraft stability.
Statement from @Airbus CEO @GuillaumeFaury on the #A320 precautionary measures:https://t.co/U4BANyBzGf pic.twitter.com/5X9uC3Ix2d
— Airbus Newsroom (@AirbusPRESS) November 29, 2025
While no incidents have resulted in serious accidents, the updates are mandatory to avoid future risks. Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury apologised for the disruption and said teams were working “around the clock” to help airlines accelerate their updates.
Ongoing oversight
The GCAA reiterated that national carriers will continue to monitor aircraft closely and apply any future technical advisories issued by Airbus or EASA. UAE passengers are advised to stay updated through airline websites and flight-status platforms, particularly for A320-family flights operating in the coming days.