Airbus orders inspections of 16 A380s after wing cracks found

Airbus said on June 23 that 16 A380 aircraft will undergo inspections after cracks were found in a key wing component on planes operated by Emirates and Qantas.

The move follows an urgent directive from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which ordered checks of the wing-spar structure after cracks were identified during routine maintenance. The affected component is a structural beam that runs along the wing and carries much of the aerodynamic load during flight, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

Of the 16 aircraft, 15 are operated by Emirates and one by Qantas. Airbus said five Emirates aircraft would be inspected immediately, starting as early as June 24.

According to Airbus, the cracks were found on an aircraft in an area that “could reduce the structural integrity of the wing.” The company said all A380s “with the same production history” had been identified for inspection.

Airbus said it would consult with EASA on whether repairs are required. The remaining 11 aircraft can be inspected later, but before completing another 25 flight cycles.

The A380 has previously faced wing-related issues. In 2012, EASA ordered inspections across the global fleet after cracks were found in brackets linking the wing skin to internal ribs, prompting a costly repair program and later design changes by Airbus.

By Sabina Mammadli