Sixteen Airbus A380s to Undergo Inspection After Cracks Found on Airplane Wings -- Update

Sixteen Airbus A380s to undergo inspection after cracks were found highlights a new safety push led by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency. EASA ordered urgent inspections of 16 A380 aircraft after cracks were discovered in a wing component during earlier checks of the wing spars structure. The directive takes effect Wednesday and notes the cracks “could reduce the structural integrity of the wing.” Airbus determined an additional special detailed inspection is required; EASA says five airplanes need immediate inspection, while the remaining 11 must be checked within 25 flight cycles. Qantas, operating the A380 in Australia, confirmed one aircraft is already scheduled for maintenance and will comply, stating there will be no impact to flights. Emirates, the Dubai-based A380 operator, said inspections will begin within 48 hours and any work will be completed before aircraft are returned to service to minimize schedule disruption.