29.11.2025 07:30
Airbus has recalled A320 aircraft for a widespread software issue. The decision, which affects approximately 6,000 planes, was made after it was determined that intense solar radiation could disrupt flight control data. Turkish Airlines has grounded 8 A320 aircraft, while AJet has also grounded seven planes. Pegasus stated, "We kindly ask you to follow the notifications for flight cancellations and delays."
Aircraft manufacturer Airbus has requested airlines to temporarily ground their 'A320neo' and 'A321neo' models to implement existing software and hardware security measures due to a identified security threat, in coordination with aviation authorities.
"MEASURES HAVE BEEN TAKEN TO ENSURE THE FLEET'S AIRWORTHINESS"
In a statement regarding the issue, Airbus indicated that they have requested measures to ensure the fleet remains airworthy, stating, "An analysis of a recent incident involving an A320 Family aircraft has revealed that intense solar radiation could disrupt critical data necessary for the operation of flight controls. In this regard, Airbus has identified that a significant number of A320 Family aircraft currently in service may be affected by this issue. Airbus has proactively collaborated with aviation authorities to request operators to implement existing software and/or hardware protections and to take immediate action through an Alert Operators Transmission (AOT) to ensure the fleet remains airworthy. This AOT will be included in an Emergency Airworthiness Directive to be issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Airbus acknowledges that these recommendations may lead to operational disruptions for passengers and customers; it apologizes for the inconvenience caused and states that it will continue to work closely with operators, keeping safety as the first and foremost priority," the statement read.
PLANES GROUNDED
Following the safety alert issued by Airbus for A320 aircraft, Turkish Airlines grounded 8, AJet grounded 7, and Pegasus grounded certain A320 aircraft temporarily, while all airlines are completing checks in coordination with EASA and Airbus to continue safe flights. Company executives have made statements regarding the issue.
THY: ALL OPERATIONS CONTINUE SAFELY
Turkish Airlines Communication Director Yahya Üstün made the following statements on his X account:
"An Operator Warning Notification (AOT) has been issued by Airbus concerning all A320 aircraft worldwide. Our 8 A320 aircraft in our fleet have been evaluated within this scope, and they will be safely returned to service after the relevant procedures are completed. All our operations are continuing safely and without interruption. During this process, we are closely following the instructions of all relevant aviation authorities, especially EASA, and working in coordination with Airbus to implement the necessary software updates. Passenger safety is always our company's top priority."
AJET: NECESSARY PROCEDURES ARE BEING CARRIED OUT FOR OUR 7 AIRCRAFT
AJet Press Advisor Mehmet Yeşilkaya stated, "The European-based aircraft manufacturer Airbus has issued an Operator Warning Notification for A320 aircraft. As AJet, which always prioritizes flight safety, our 7 aircraft in the fleet that are evaluated within this scope will continue their operations after the necessary procedures are completed. During this process, we are closely following the instructions of both EASA and the relevant aviation authorities and continuing our work in coordination with Airbus to implement the necessary software updates. This situation does not affect our operational processes. Our flights are continuing safely." he said.
PEGASUS: PLEASE FOLLOW UP ON CANCELLATIONS AND DELAYS
In a statement from Pegasus, it was said, "Airbus has issued an Operator Warning Notification concerning all A320 family aircraft operating worldwide. As Pegasus Airlines, we are carrying out the necessary procedures for our aircraft within this scope in accordance with the instructions in the notification. We are rapidly conducting the process in coordination with EASA and Airbus to ensure the safest operation. We are working to minimize the impact on our operations and our guests during this process. We kindly ask you to follow up on cancellations and delays." it was stated.