Following the results of previously mandated Airbus A380 wing spar inspections that revealed cracking, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency has issued an emergency airworthiness directive mandating special inspections of certain A380s. The inspections affect 16 aircraft across two airlines, with nearly all of the affected aircraft operated by Emirates.
What is EASA requiring?
EASA is requiring certain A380s to undergo special testing of their wings following the results of more general inspections previously mandated by the agency. Airbus originally issued an Alert Operators Transmission (AOT) in early November 2025, which was codified by an EASA airworthiness directive following the discovery of wing spare cracks in multiple A380s. The newest emergency directive applies only to aircraft found to have defects worthy of further specialized inspection.
The aircraft subject to the new EAD fall into two groups. Group 1 aircraft may not carry passengers until the inspections and any corrective actions are completed. Group 2 aircraft must be inspected within 25 flights cycles after the effective date of the EAD, which is 24 June 2026.
Which aircraft are affected?
Most of the Group 1 aircraft have already been sent to facilities for inspection and any necessary repairs. In Group 2, the Emirates aircraft are currently all scheduled for service, while the affected Qantas A380 has been in Dresden since March for maintenance and overhaul.
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