New Delhi, November 29, 2025 – Indian airlines have successfully upgraded over 55% of the 338 Airbus A320-family aircraft affected by a recent flight-control directive following a serious pitch-down incident on a US-based JetBlue flight, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) reported on Saturday. Authorities confirmed that the remaining aircraft are on track to undergo software modifications within the regulator’s stipulated timeline, ensuring the continued safety of operations.

Background: The Pitch-Down Incident

The directive follows an incident on October 30, 2025, when a JetBlue Airbus A320 flying from Cancun to Newarkexperienced an uncommanded pitch-down, resulting in injuries to several passengers. The flight was diverted to Tampa, where affected passengers received medical attention.

A preliminary investigation by Airbus indicated that a malfunction in the Elevator Aileron Computer (ELAC) flight-control system may have triggered the pitch-down. In response, Airbus issued an Alert Operators Transmission (AOT)on November 28, instructing airlines worldwide to carry out software upgrades or, where necessary, replace affected ELAC units to prevent similar occurrences.

Following this, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) issued an Emergency Airworthiness Directive (AD), mandating immediate compliance by airlines operating A320-family aircraft, including A320 CEO, A320 NEO, and A321 variants.

DGCA’s Immediate Response

The DGCA acted promptly to coordinate with Indian carriers, outlining an action plan for urgent compliance. On November 29, the regulator issued a Mandatory Modification, prescribing the required actions to ensure continued safe operation of the aircraft.

“Based on the Airbus AOT and EASA Emergency AD, DGCA has issued a Mandatory Modification prescribing mandatory actions for continued safe operations,” the agency stated.

Status of Aircraft Upgrades in India

Indian carriers operate a combined 338 A320-family aircraft impacted by the directive. DGCA provided the following status update:

• IndiGo: Out of 200 affected aircraft, 143 have already undergone software upgrades. The remaining fleet is being modified at bases in Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, and Kolkata. IndiGo has reported no cancellations so far and expects full compliance by 5:29 am on November 30.
• Air India: Among 113 affected aircraft (104 A320 NEOs and 9 A320 CEOs), 42 have completed upgrades. The airline continues modifications across Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Chennai, with no cancellations anticipated.
• Air India Express: Of 25 affected aircraft, four have undergone upgrades. The airline expects eight minor delays but no flight cancellations, with remaining aircraft scheduled for modification at Delhi, Bengaluru, and Chennai, to be completed before 5:29 am on November 30.

Airlines’ Measures and Assurances

Air India stated that its engineering teams have been “working round the clock,” with over 40% of affected aircraft already reset. The airline assured passengers that, while minor delays may occur, all modifications will be completed within the timeline prescribed by EASA, and no cancellations have been reported.

IndiGo highlighted its close collaboration with Airbus to implement the required upgrades efficiently. The airline emphasized its commitment to passenger safety while minimizing disruptions. “While we carry out the necessary inspections, we are making every effort to minimise disruptions. We regret any inconvenience this unforeseen situation may cause,” the carrier said.

The DGCA reiterated that safety is the top priority, and airlines are adhering strictly to international directives to maintain operational integrity.

Significance of the Directive

The global safety alert underscores the critical role of flight-control systems in modern aircraft and the need for rapid regulatory response. The A320 pitch-down incident drew attention to potential vulnerabilities in the ELAC system, prompting urgent action worldwide.

By mandating software upgrades and monitoring progress in India, the DGCA has demonstrated its commitment to aligning domestic aviation standards with global safety protocols. The coordinated response also highlights the collaborative approach between regulators, manufacturers, and airlines in safeguarding passengers.

Looking Ahead

As of Saturday, over half of the affected Indian Airbus fleet has completed upgrades, and all remaining aircraft are on track for compliance before the DGCA’s prescribed deadline. Airlines continue to monitor schedules closely and implement contingency measures to minimize disruptions for passengers.

The regulator’s swift action ensures that India’s A320 operations remain safe and reliable while maintaining adherence to international safety directives issued by EASA and Airbus.