Airbus detects quality problem in A321 neo fuselage paint; crashed about a dozen IndiGo planes

Airbus has identified a quality issue related to the surface protective layer on the fuselage of a number of its A321neo narrow-body aircraft, with about a dozen IndiGo-operated aircraft affected, PTI reported citing sources.

The European plane maker has identified the source of the problem and fixed it while a fix is available, Airbus said on Friday.

Airbus says the problem is not safety-related

An Airbus The spokesman said the problem was identified during a standard rework involving a deviation of the surface protection on the stiffeners located in the lower forward part of the fuselage.

“The source of the problem has been identified, resolved and a remedy is available. All newly coated braces meet all requirements,” the spokesperson said in a statement, according to PTI.

Airbus said the affected aircraft could continue to operate, describing the matter as “a quality issue, not a safety issue”.

Indigo and Air India are the two Indian airlines operating the A321neo. Altogether they have around 190 aircraft of this type.

Sources told PTI that there is no impact on Air India’s A321neo fleet.

There is no official comment from IndiGo or Air India on the matter.

What does the repair involve?

According to the sources of the press agency, some parts of the affected hull need to be repainted, and the work must be completed within two years.

Airbus said the redesign does not require dismantling the struts.

“Once the redesign is applied, the aircraft is considered back as in the nominal design,” an Airbus spokesman said, according to the news source.

IndiGo operates more than 180 A321neo aircraft

IndiGo has a fleet of over 430 aircraft, including over 180 A321neo aircraft, according to information provided to PTI.

Meanwhile, Air India has around nine A321neo aircraft.

The A321neo is part of the Airbus A320neo family of narrow-body aircraft and is widely used for domestic and international operations.