Commercial Aviation
easyJet Completes Software Updates After Airbus A320 Safety Recall
easyJet quickly updates its Airbus A320 fleet software following EU recall over flight control vulnerability from solar radiation exposure.
In a swift response to a significant aviation safety directive, easyJet has announced the successful completion of mandatory software updates on a large portion of its Airbus A320 fleet. This action follows a global recall issued by Airbus on Friday, November 28, 2025, which affected approximately 6,000 aircraft worldwide. The recall was precipitated by a technical directive from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), flagging a potential vulnerability in the flight control systems of the A320 family of aircraft.
The airline has moved quickly to reassure passengers and investors alike, stating that it expects to operate its flying program as normal for Saturday, November 29, 2025. While the issuance of an Emergency Airworthiness Directive (EAD) often leads to widespread groundings and cancellations, easyJet’s engineering teams appear to have mitigated the immediate operational risks. By prioritizing the software reversion required by the directive, the carrier aims to minimize the disruption that is currently affecting other parts of the global aviation industry.
This development highlights the critical nature of modern avionics and the agility required by major carriers to maintain schedules in the face of technical challenges. With the recall stemming from a highly specific interaction between solar radiation and flight control computers, the situation underscores the complexity of maintaining airworthiness in an increasingly digital aerospace environment. We see this as a testament to the robust safety protocols governing commercial aviation, where potential risks are identified and rectified with immediacy.
Following the release of the directive, easyJet confirmed that it had “already completed the software update on many A320 aircraft.” This proactive approach is crucial for the airline, which relies heavily on the A320 family for its short-haul European network. The airline’s spokesperson acknowledged the potential for some disruption but emphasized that the bulk of the necessary work was executed immediately following the recall notice. This rapid turnaround suggests a well-coordinated effort between the airline’s maintenance operations and Airbus technical support.
For passengers traveling this weekend, the airline has advised maintaining a standard level of vigilance regarding flight status. Although operations are projected to run normally, easyJet has urged travelers to monitor their flights via the airline’s official flight tracker. This is a standard precautionary measure during fleet-wide maintenance events, ensuring that any residual delays or specific aircraft swaps are communicated effectively to the customer base. The ability to maintain a normal schedule stands in contrast to other carriers globally, some of which have faced significant cancellations.
The logistical challenge of updating a fleet of this size cannot be overstated. The fix generally involves reverting the software of the Elevator Aileron Computer (ELAC) to a previous, stable version. This process is estimated to take approximately two to three hours per aircraft. By executing these updates overnight and during operational gaps, easyJet has managed to keep its aircraft airworthy without necessitating a total grounding of the fleet, a move that protects both passenger plans and the airline’s operational integrity.
“We are expecting this to result in some disruption… [but we have] already completed the software update on many A320 aircraft.”, easyJet Spokesperson
The root cause of this global recall is as fascinating as it is concerning, involving the interaction between cosmic phenomena and digital hardware. The issue was isolated to the Elevator Aileron Computer (ELAC), specifically the ELAC B unit running software version L104. Airbus engineers determined that this specific hardware and software combination is susceptible to Single Event Upsets (SEUs) caused by intense solar radiation, commonly associated with solar flares.
In technical terms, high-energy particles from cosmic rays can strike the memory chips within the flight computer. This impact can cause a “bit flip,” changing a zero to a one in the binary code. While modern avionics are designed with redundancy to handle such errors, this specific vulnerability could lead the computer to misinterpret data. The consequence of such corruption could be an erroneous command sent to the elevators, forcing the aircraft’s nose down in an uncommanded dive. This discovery necessitated the immediate intervention of regulators to ensure flight safety. The investigation that led to this recall was triggered by a serious incident on October 30, 2025. A JetBlue A320 flight traveling from Cancun to Newark experienced a sudden, uncommanded loss of altitude. While the crew recovered the aircraft, the event resulted in passenger injuries and launched a high-priority investigation. The correlation between that event and the susceptibility of the L104 software to solar radiation provided the data necessary for EASA to issue the Emergency Airworthiness Directive, mandating the fix before affected aircraft could fly again.
While easyJet has managed to navigate this crisis with minimal fallout, the broader aviation industry is feeling the weight of the recall. The directive affects roughly half of the global fleet of A320 family aircraft, including the A319, A320, and A321 models. This amounts to approximately 6,000 aircraft worldwide. The timing of the recall, landing during the busy Thanksgiving travel weekend in the United States, has exacerbated the situation for North American carriers, although European airlines face less pressure from this specific holiday window.
Comparatively, other airlines have faced steeper operational hurdles. Reports indicate that Jetstar in Australia was forced to cancel over 90 domestic flights to ground planes for the necessary updates. Similarly, Avianca in Colombia reported that 70% of its fleet was affected, leading to a suspension of ticket sales until early December. American Airlines identified approximately 209 affected aircraft and launched an overnight effort to apply the fixes. These disparities in operational impact highlight the varying degrees of fleet exposure and maintenance capacity across different operators.
Looking ahead, the industry will likely see a rigorous review of semiconductor sensitivity to cosmic radiation in avionics. While the immediate fix involves a software reversion, a smaller subset of older aircraft, approximately 1,000 globally, may require physical hardware replacements, a process that is significantly more time-consuming than the software patch. For easyJet, however, the focus remains on maintaining the current momentum of updates to ensure that the “business as usual” status for November 29 extends into the coming weeks.
easyJet’s handling of the Airbus A320 software recall demonstrates the airline’s capacity for rapid crisis management and operational resilience. By swiftly implementing the mandated software updates, the carrier has successfully avoided the large-scale groundings that have plagued other airlines affected by the same directive. The event serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between environmental factors, such as solar radiation, and the sophisticated digital systems that govern modern flight.
As the aviation industry continues to implement these fixes, the focus will shift toward long-term hardware resilience against cosmic interference. For now, passengers traveling with easyJet can proceed with relative confidence, backed by the knowledge that the fleet has undergone the necessary safety revisions to comply with the strictest regulatory standards.
Question: Is my easyJet flight cancelled due to the recall? Question: What caused the Airbus A320 recall? Question: How is the issue being fixed? Sources: Reuters
easyJet Secures Fleet Operations Following Global Airbus A320 Software Recall
Operational Resilience: easyJet’s Rapid Response
The Technical Core: Solar Radiation and Flight Controls
Global Context and Industry Impact
Concluding Section
FAQ
Answer: easyJet plans to operate its flying program as normal for Saturday, November 29, 2025. However, passengers are advised to check the status of their flights via the airline’s flight tracker as a precaution.
Answer: The recall was caused by a vulnerability in the Elevator Aileron Computer (ELAC) software, which could be corrupted by intense solar radiation (cosmic rays), potentially leading to uncommanded nose-down pitch events.
Answer: For most aircraft, including the majority of easyJet’s fleet, the fix involves reverting the flight computer’s software to a previous, stable version. This process takes approximately 2-3 hours per aircraft.
Photo Credit: easyJet
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
EgyptAir Receives First Airbus A350-900 to Modernize Fleet
EgyptAir accepts its first Airbus A350-900, starting a fleet overhaul with 16 aircraft to expand long-haul routes and improve efficiency.
This article is based on an official press release from Airbus and additional fleet data.
EgyptAir has officially taken delivery of its first Airbus A350-900, registered as SU-GGE, marking a significant milestone in the carrier’s modernization strategy. The handover, which took place on February 9, 2026, positions the Cairo-based airline as the first operator of the A350-900 in North Africa.
According to an official press release from Airbus, this aircraft is the first of 16 A350-900s ordered by the Egyptian flag carrier. The delivery underscores EgyptAir’s commitment to phasing out older wide-body jets while expanding its long-haul network capabilities to new destinations in North America and Asia.
The arrival of the A350-900 represents a pivotal shift in EgyptAir’s long-haul operations. The airline originally signed for 10 aircraft during the Dubai Airshow in November 2023, later expanding the commitment with a top-up order for six additional units. These new airframes are intended to replace the carrier’s aging Boeing 777-300ER fleet, offering improved operating economics and passenger comfort.
In a statement regarding the initial order, Yehia Zakaria, EgyptAir Holding Chairman and CEO, highlighted the flagship status of the new type:
“The A350-900 will be our flagship aircraft… adding the world’s most modern and efficient widebody aircraft to our fleet will be instrumental in expanding our offering.”
Christian Scherer, Chief Commercial Officer at Airbus, noted the economic advantages the aircraft brings to the airline’s network:
“The A350 is the one and only aircraft enabling EgyptAir to open up its network with benchmark economic efficiency, not to mention passenger comfort.”
EgyptAir has outlined a phased entry-into-service plan for the new fleet. Initially, the aircraft will be deployed on trunk routes to London and Paris to facilitate crew familiarization. Following this integration period, the airline plans to leverage the A350’s 9,700 nautical mile range to launch non-stop services to the U.S. West Coast and key Asian markets, including Shanghai, Beijing, and Tokyo.
The new A350-900 features a two-class configuration designed to maximize capacity while introducing updated premium amenities. According to fleet data, the aircraft accommodates a total of 340 passengers. Technological upgrades are a focal point of the new cabin. The aircraft is equipped with Panasonic Avionics’ Astrova in-flight entertainment system, providing 4K OLED screens and high-fidelity audio. Additionally, passengers across all classes will have access to USB-C fast charging ports and high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity.
The transition to the A350-900 aligns with broader industry sustainability goals. Powered by two Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, the aircraft is reported to burn 25% less fuel compared to the previous generation aircraft it replaces. This efficiency gain corresponds to a 25% reduction in CO2 emissions.
Furthermore, the A350 is recognized as the quietest aircraft in its class, possessing a noise footprint 50% smaller than older jets, a critical factor for operations at noise-sensitive airports in Europe and North America.
EgyptAir’s delivery secures its position as the sole active operator of the A350-900 in the North African region, a status solidified by the shifting strategies of its neighbors. While other carriers in the region had previously expressed interest in the type, market dynamics have led to cancellations and delays.
For instance, Air Algérie cancelled its order for A350-1000s in early 2025, opting instead for Airbus A330-900neos. Similarly, Tunisair cancelled its A350 commitments in 2013. Other regional orders, such as those from Libyan carriers Afriqiyah Airways and Libyan Airlines, remain stalled due to long-standing instability. Consequently, EgyptAir currently faces no direct regional competition operating this specific airframe, potentially offering it a product advantage on competitive routes connecting Africa to Europe and the Americas.
Sources:
EgyptAir Accepts Delivery of First Airbus A350-900, Initiating Major Fleet Overhaul
Fleet Modernization and Strategic Expansion
Operational Deployment
Cabin Configuration and Passenger Experience
Environmental Performance
AirPro News Analysis: Regional Market Context
Airbus Press Release
Photo Credit: Airbus
Route Development
SAS and TAROM Codeshare Connects Scandinavia and Romania in 2026
SAS and TAROM announce a codeshare agreement effective February 2026, enhancing connectivity between Scandinavia and Romania with SkyTeam benefits.
This article is based on an official press release from SAS Group.
Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and TAROM, the flag carrier of Romania, have announced a comprehensive codeshare agreement set to commence on February 9, 2026. The partnership aims to restore and enhance connectivity between Northern Europe and Romania following SAS’s strategic shift to the SkyTeam alliance.
According to the official announcement from SAS Group, the agreement will allow passengers to book single-ticket journeys between the two regions by utilizing major European transit hubs. This move integrates TAROM, a long-standing SkyTeam member, more deeply with SAS, which officially joined the alliance on September 1, 2024.
The collaboration addresses a significant gap in network connectivity, offering business and leisure travelers seamless baggage check-through and reciprocal loyalty benefits. Paul Verhagen, EVP & Chief Commercial Officer at SAS, emphasized the strategic value of the deal in a statement:
“This new partnership with TAROM marks an important step in enhancing connectivity between Scandinavia and Romania. By combining our networks and offering smooth transfers via key European hubs, we are giving our customers more choice, flexibility, and convenience.”
Rather than launching direct flights immediately, the airlines are leveraging a “virtual hub” strategy. According to the press release, the codeshare will route traffic through four key intermediate airports: Amsterdam (AMS), Brussels (BRU), Frankfurt (FRA), and Prague (PRG).
Under the terms of the agreement:
This structure allows the airlines to offer competitive travel times and frequency without dedicating aircraft to direct point-to-point routes, which are currently dominated by low-cost carriers.
This agreement is a direct consequence of the major airline alliance realignment that occurred in late 2024. When SAS departed Star Alliance to join SkyTeam, it lost its traditional connectivity to Eastern Europe provided by partners like Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines. Partnering with TAROM allows SAS to rebuild its footprint in the region using SkyTeam infrastructure.
For TAROM, the deal unlocks access to the high-yield Scandinavian market. The Romanian carrier is currently in the midst of a fleet modernization program, transitioning from aging aircraft to new Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets expected to arrive in late 2025 and 2026. By utilizing SAS for the northern leg of the journey, TAROM can expand its network reach while conserving its own metal for other high-demand routes. Narcis Obeadă, Commercial Director at TAROM, hinted at further expansion in the company’s statement:
“In the coming period, TAROM will announce new commercial agreements, in line with the company’s mission to safely and efficiently connect Romania and Romanian culture to the international air transport network.”
Travelers utilizing the codeshare will benefit from the full suite of SkyTeam alliance perks. Members of SAS EuroBonus and TAROM’s loyalty program will be able to earn and redeem points on these codeshare flights. Additionally, premium passengers will gain access to SkyTeam lounges at transit hubs.
The passenger experience on the SAS leg of these journeys is also set for an upgrade. SAS is currently rolling out free high-speed Starlink WiFi across its fleet, a project the airline states will be widely available by late 2025.
The “Prague” Anomaly and Market Positioning
The inclusion of Prague (PRG) as a connection hub is a notable operational detail. Following the cessation of operations by Czech Airlines (CSA) as a standalone SkyTeam member in October 2024, Prague is no longer a primary alliance hub. The decision to route traffic through PRG suggests a strong bilateral interline capability between SAS and TAROM that functions independently of major alliance hub infrastructure.
Furthermore, this deal clearly targets the premium business segment. While low-cost carrier Wizz Air operates direct flights between Bucharest and Copenhagen, legacy carriers cannot compete purely on price. Instead, SAS and TAROM are competing on schedule flexibility (multiple daily frequencies via hubs) and corporate perks (lounge access, baggage interlining). With tourism to Romania rising, foreign arrivals were up 13.4% year-on-year as of August 2024, the demand for reliable, full-service connectivity is likely to grow.
When can I book these codeshare flights? Will my bags be checked through to the final destination? Do these flights count toward SkyTeam Elite status?
SAS and TAROM Launch Strategic Codeshare to Connect Scandinavia and Romania
Operational Details: The Virtual Hub Strategy
RO marketing code on SAS flights connecting Copenhagen, Oslo, and Stockholm to these intermediate hubs.SK marketing code on TAROM flights connecting Bucharest to the same hubs.Strategic Context: The SkyTeam Realignment
Passenger Experience and Loyalty
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
The codeshare agreement is effective starting February 9, 2026. Tickets should be available through both airlines’ booking channels prior to this date.
Yes. Because this is a full codeshare agreement, passengers traveling on a single ticket (e.g., Bucharest to Stockholm via Amsterdam) will have their baggage checked through to the final destination.
Yes. Flights marketed and operated by SkyTeam members (SAS and TAROM) count toward tier status and accrue redeemable miles/points according to the rules of your specific loyalty program.
Sources
Photo Credit: SAS Group
Route Development
Starlux Airlines Launches Taipei to Prague Flights in 2026
Starlux Airlines will begin nonstop service between Taipei and Prague in August 2026, featuring its exclusive First Class on the Airbus A350-900.
This article summarizes reporting by One Mile at a Time and Ben Schlappig.
Starlux Airlines, the Taiwan-based luxury carrier, has officially announced its expansion into the European market. According to reporting by One Mile at a Time, the airline will launch nonstop service between Taipei (TPE) and Prague (PRG) beginning August 1, 2026. This development marks a major milestone for the “boutique” airline, representing its first long-haul destination outside of North America.
The new route signals a strategic shift for Starlux, which has previously focused its long-haul efforts exclusively on transpacific flights to the United States. By deploying its flagship Airbus A350-900 aircraft on this sector, the airline intends to compete directly with legacy carriers by offering a premium-heavy configuration, including its exclusive First Class cabin.
Based on schedule data cited by One Mile at a Time and confirmed by Prague Airport, the service will initially operate three times weekly. The flights are scheduled for Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, with plans to increase frequency to four times weekly by adding Mondays starting in October 2026.
The operational schedule is as follows:
Jiří Pos, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Prague Airport, welcomed the new connection in a statement regarding the launch.
“We estimate that the route will be used by approximately 95,000 passengers in the first year of operation.”
, Jiří Pos, Chairman of Prague Airport
Travelers on this route will experience Starlux’s most premium hardware. One Mile at a Time notes that the Airbus A350-900 is the only aircraft type in the Starlux fleet equipped with a First Class cabin. The aircraft features a total of 306 seats across four distinct classes:
This deployment is significant because it brings a true First Class product to the Taipei-Prague market, distinguishing Starlux from competitors that may only offer Business Class on similar routes.
While major European hubs like London Heathrow or Paris Charles de Gaulle are often the first ports of call for Asian carriers expanding westward, Starlux’s choice of Prague is driven by specific economic factors rather than traditional tourism volume alone. The Semiconductor Connection “Prague is a long-favored destination for Taiwanese travelers, and growing semiconductor industry ties are expected to further drive demand…”
, Glenn Chai, CEO of Starlux Airlines
Competitive Landscape According to the reporting by Ben Schlappig, this route is likely just the beginning of Starlux’s European ambitions. The airline has indicated plans to launch a second European destination later in 2026. While not officially confirmed, industry reports suggest Milan (MXP) is a strong contender, which would align with the carrier’s Strategy of connecting high-value fashion and business hubs.
Starlux Airlines Selects Prague for First European Route
Flight Schedule and Operational Details
Onboard Experience: The Airbus A350-900
AirPro News Analysis: Strategic Market Positioning
We observe that the economic ties between Taiwan and the Czech Republic have deepened significantly due to the semiconductor industry. With major investments from Taiwanese tech giants in Central Europe, business travel demand is high. Starlux CEO Glenn Chai highlighted this synergy in his remarks regarding the Launch.
Starlux will face direct competition from China Airlines, which launched the same route in July 2023. However, Starlux appears to be betting on its “luxury boutique” brand identity to capture high-yield business travelers and premium leisure tourists who prioritize cabin comfort and newer aircraft hardware.
Future European Expansion
Frequently Asked Questions
Photo Credit: Starlux Airlines
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