Director Dung acknowledged the significant impact of 81 affected aircraft. However, he noted that airlines promptly and responsibly complied with requests from Airbus and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) to either replace equipment or update software. Airlines efficiently managed flight schedules and maintenance plans to ensure continued operations.

Noi Bai airport avoided congestion on 29/11 despite airlines updating their fleet software. A representative from Noi Bai airport confirmed they proactively initiated technical procedures, working through the night of 28/11 to facilitate the updates. Each aircraft required approximately one hour for the update, a duration that did not cause significant disruptions to flight schedules.

Aircraft at Dien Bien airport. Photo: Ngoc Thanh

Vietjet Air announced it would complete software updates for 69 affected aircraft ahead of the deadline. The airline adjusted the operating schedules for two international and two domestic flights. All affected passengers were re-routed starting from the night of 28/11.

Vietnam Airlines' VAECO technical team updated software for approximately 20 affected aircraft, with completion expected on 29/11.

This technical review of the Airbus fleet stemmed from an urgent request by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and manufacturer Airbus. It mandated that A319, A320, and A321 series aircraft update their ELAC computer control software by 6:59 on 30/11 to maintain airworthiness.

By Doan Loan