Key facts
- EASA has ordered emergency inspections of 16 Airbus A380 aircraft due to wing cracks.
- The cracks were found in the wing mid-spar, a critical structural component.
- Fifteen of the affected A380s are operated by Emirates, and one by Qantas.
- Five Emirates aircraft require immediate inspection before their next flight.
- Airbus will discuss potential repairs with EASA.
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has ordered emergency inspections of 16 Airbus A380 superjumbo aircraft due to cracks discovered in a key wing component, specifically the wing mid-spar. Fifteen of the affected aircraft are operated by Emirates, and one by Qantas. Five Emirates aircraft require immediate inspection before their next flight. The A380, which entered service in 2007 and ceased production in 2021, has experienced wing-related issues previously, leading to inspections and repairs in 2012. Airbus will discuss potential repairs with EASA. The manufacturer is also contending with ongoing supply chain disruptions and rising costs.