Airbus is preparing to inspect 16 of its A380 superjumbo jets after cracks were discovered in a key wing structure, prompting urgent action from European aviation regulators and raising concerns over the long-term durability of the world\u2019s largest passenger aircraft. used by the Emirates and Qantas airlines.<\/p>\n
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has issued an Emergency Airworthiness Directive requiring inspections of the affected aircraft after cracks were found in wing spars, structural components that help bear aerodynamic loads during flight. Regulators warned that the defects could potentially reduce the structural integrity of the wing if left unaddressed.<\/p>\n
According to EASA\u2019s directive, five aircraft operated by Emirates must undergo inspections before their next flight, while another 11 aircraft \u2014 10 from Emirates and one from Qantas \u2014 must be checked within 25 flight cycles. Emirates, the world\u2019s largest operator of the A380, said inspections would begin within 48 hours. A spokesperson for the airline said, \u201cAny work required will be carried out before releasing aircraft to service,\u201d adding that the carrier was working closely with Airbus and regulators to minimise disruption to flight schedules.<\/p>\n
Airbus to inspect 16 A380s after cracks found on plane wing structural beam.<\/p>\n
Read more : https:\/\/t.co\/d26EsQ3kM2<\/a>#aircraft<\/a> #manufacturer<\/a> #aviation<\/a> pic.twitter.com\/LOk8skuexY<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 FL360aero (@fl360aero) June 23, 2026<\/a> <\/p>\n Airbus said it was supporting the inspection programme and would assess the results alongside EASA before determining whether repairs would be required or whether the aircraft could return directly to commercial service. An Airbus spokesperson said the company would evaluate \u201cwhether repairs are necessary or if the aircraft can return to commercial service.\u201d<\/p>\n Qantas said the single aircraft affected in its fleet was already undergoing scheduled maintenance, meaning the inspection is not expected to cause operational disruptions. The airline confirmed that no changes to its flight schedule are anticipated as a result of the directive.<\/p>\n A Qantas Airbus A380 arrives in Sydney \ud83c\udfa5 pic.twitter.com\/wxEtCLzjyo<\/a><\/p>\n