New Delhi

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued an airworthiness directive prohibiting the operation of several Airbus A320 family aircraft models after safety concerns emerged over a software update.

The directive, signed by Assistant Director (Airworthiness) Nishikant Sharma, states that no aircraft falling under the mandate may be operated unless it complies with the required mandatory modifications and Airworthiness Directives.

The order covers a wide range of Airbus A320 series models, including multiple variants of A319, A320 and A321 aircraft.

The move follows an Airbus warning calling for immediate repairs across its global A320 fleet after an incident involving an A320 aircraft revealed a potential “solar radiation risk” capable of corrupting data critical to flight controls. Airbus estimates that approximately 6,000 aircraft worldwide could be affected.

The company said it has been working with international aviation authorities and has issued an Alert Operators Transmission (AOT) to ensure software and hardware protection measures are implemented. The AOT will be reflected in an Emergency Airworthiness Directive from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).

The development is likely to impact air travel across India, with domestic carriers Air India and IndiGo flagging possible delays and schedule adjustments. Both airlines have stated they are coordinating with Airbus to carry out inspections and apply the required updates to their A320 fleets.

READ MORE: Unity Reel Challenge: Showcase India’s unity in 90 seconds and win a bumper prize

Air India said the directive involves “software/hardware realignment” on part of its fleet, while IndiGo assured passengers that safety remains its top priority and apologised for any inconvenience caused during the inspection period.