Let’s look at the technical side of the problem….
On 28 November, EASA issued an Emergency Airworthiness Directive (EAD) for the A320 family. This addresses an issue which manifested itself on a recent JetBlue flight. Such is the seriousness of the problem, the Authority immediately notified airlines without going through their usual consultation process. So, here’s the technical description.
The problem concerns the Elevator Aileron Computer (ELAC) and possible solar radiation damage. The JetBlue flight crew experienced an uncommanded and limited pitch down event. The autopilot remained engaged throughout, with a brief and limited loss of altitude. The rest of the flight was uneventful. Preliminary technical assessment done by Airbus identified a malfunction of the affected ELAC as a possible contributing factor. This condition, if not corrected, could lead in the worst-case scenario to an uncommanded elevator movement, which may result in exceeding the aircraft’s structural capability.
To address this potentially unsafe condition, Airbus issued the Alert Operators Transmission (AOT), providing instructions to install a serviceable ELAC. For the reason described above, this EAD requires installation of a serviceable ELAC and prohibits installation of an affected ELAC. For reference, Group 1 aircraft are those having an affected ELAC installed and being in one of the configurations defined in the AOT. Group 2 are those which are not Group 1. Information on required action and compliance time, unless they have been already accomplished. Replacement for Group 1 should be carried out before next flight after the effective date of this AD. To replace or modify each affected ELAC with a serviceable ELAC in accordance with the instructions of the AOT. A ferry flight (up to 3 cycles, non-ETOPS, no passengers) is permitted to position the aircraft to a location where the replacement or modification can be completed.
The UK CAA added that overnight, airlines worked closely with airports and carried out the software update to the vast majority of relevant aircraft. Very few UK flights have been affected and there are minimal delays. At Airbus, the CEO sees it slightly differently. In a statement, he announced that the problem was causing significant logistical challenges and delays. He’s obviously looking at the worldwide impact, involving around 6000 aircraft. A news round-up by travel writer Simon Calder looks at the situation worldwide. BA and easyJet report no disruptions to their European destinations. Air France at CDG and ORY have cancelled dozens of flights. In Australia and New Zealand, JetStar and Air New Zealand the figure is around 90 flights each. Colombia’s Avianca is also reported to be severely affected.
One interesting view that’s surfaced overnight. Richard de Crespigny (Captain QF32) offers the following opinion, supported by a highly technical document from NASA. At the sun’s current high sunspot period, he thinks Airbus A320 ELAC computer’s problem is with algorithms to absorb bad incoming data from affected external sources, not with the physical ELAC. However, he says full credit to Airbus for admitting the increased risks and its widespread action to restore safety. This is why flying the public is safe.
Yes, there have been the usual inaccuracies from news sources and so-called aviation media experts…
In other news –
Blue Angels – the well-known USA Hercules C-130J Super, nicknamed Fat Albert, is currently at CBG for a new centre wing box to be fitted at Marshalls. Routine maintenance, full paint strip and repaint will also be conducted. Did anyone witness its arrival recently?
SmartLynx – the Latvian based charter airline has ceased trading. The airline formed many partnerships with companies such as easyJet and TUI, operating leisure flights to popular European destinations. Around 400 multi-national staff will lose their jobs. After Avia Solutions Group sold SmartLynx to a Dutch fund in October 2025, it has ceased operations due to financial difficulty.
And finally –
Praise Indeed – no it’s not the name of a new start-up but a recent event involving 2 YouTube channels, live chat participants and a Virgin Atlantic Captain. Proof that aviation embraces friendship amongst a large group of people with a common interest.
Location: MIA, Participants: HorisBox and Planes&Friends (YT), their members/subscribers, Captain Chris (A320/330/340/350 & Training)
Jens from Planes&Friends usually streams from JFK/EWR. On a short vacation he met up with Hori at MIA (he also covers FLL). Enter Captain Chris bringing VS5 from LHR on 26 November. Landing on Runway 9 meant an amazing video opportunity, causing much excitement amongst all watching. Keeping in mind the 5-hour time difference, I had DM chat with him, he took a clip then posted it on his Instagram account. What made this special were his words. Being discreet, he didn’t name me but was delighted to receive the message that he’d been filmed. After watching, listening and reading the live chat he was obviously touched. One standout comment was in 40+ years of aviation, he was amazed how closely knit the community is.
There’s more to this story. Due to fly back to LHR on 27 November but poor weather at MIA meant his aircraft diverted to MCO, so flight was cancelled. Planes&Friends had announced a live stream for 28 November but subsequently cancelled too. With MIA webcam, live ATC on there and FR24 I was able to see his taxi and departure. Already knew F/O was flying, so bonus hearing Captain’s voice. To complete the event, Jens and Captain Chris have spoken. My task is done!
Breaking news, congratulations to Captain Chris on “exemplary” completion of the Pilot Helper Peer Support Course. The citation also states his dedication to encouraging a supportive environment within the aviation community. Pilot Helper is an organisation leading the way in aviation workplace education to create a safer, healthier and supportive future. They pioneer innovations that improve pilot mental health, something that has been overlooked for too long in this industry. The course provides pilots with the skills needed to offer meaningful support to their peers. Built by pilots and doctors, it blends real world aviation experience with expert insight, to ensure no pilot has to navigate challenges alone.
Information courtesy of CAA, EASA, Marshalls, Planes&Friends (on YT), Captain Chris Pohl, Pilot Helper
Images courtesy of Marshall Aerospace, PilotHelper
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