Relevance: GS-3 (Aviation Safety, Technology Regulation) | Source: The Indian Express

India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), ordered airlines to urgently install a software fix on Airbus A320-family aircraft after Airbus issued a safety alert. Aircraft without the modification had to be grounded.

Why Was the Update Needed?

• A recent incident abroad showed that intense solar radiation could corrupt aircraft sensor data.
• Airbus identified several A320-family aircraft (mainly A319, some A320/A321) that could face flight control glitches without the software patch.
• The fix updates the “Mandatory Modification” to ensure flight computers remain stable under high-radiation conditions.

Implications

• Immediate grounding avoided major travel disruptions due to swift airline compliance.
• Ensures enhanced passenger safety and prevents possible mid-air control faults.
• Highlights the need for real-time safety monitoring, rapid software maintenance, and stronger aircraft-manufacturer–regulator coordination.

MCQ

Q. The DGCA recently ordered software upgrades on Airbus aircraft. Consider the following:
1. The issue was linked to corruption of aircraft data due to solar radiation.
2. A320-family aircraft are produced by both Boeing and Airbus.
3. DGCA can ground aircraft under India’s Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR).

Which are correct?

(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a)