Most A320s Return to Service After ELAC Software Fix as Airbus Checks Separate Panel Issue

Overview

• Airbus says fewer than 100 A320‑family jets remain grounded after an emergency update that targeted roughly 6,000 aircraft.
• The immediate remedy was a rollback to an earlier ELAC build loaded via cabin data loaders, while a smaller, older subset may need hardware replacements.
• An Oct. 30 JetBlue A320 experienced an uncommanded descent and diverted to Tampa with injuries reported, and preliminary analysis pointed to intense solar radiation corrupting flight‑control data.
• Carriers reported widespread delays and cancellations before operations largely normalized; Avianca suspended ticket sales to Dec. 8, then reported 90% of updates completed and reopened sales from Dec. 5.
• Airbus confirmed a limited fuselage panel quality issue it says is identified and contained, and CEO Guillaume Faury said November deliveries were weak as the company assesses potential December impacts.