Cracks in wing structure prompt urgent EASA inspections of 16 Airbus A380 jets

European aviation authorities have ordered immediate wing inspections on 16 Airbus A380 superjumbos after cracks were found in a critical structural component. The mandatory checks, triggered by a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) directive, affect 15 jets operated by Dubai-based Emirates and one by Australia's Qantas.

Crack discovery and EASA directive

The cracks were detected in the wing mid spars, load-bearing beams that run lengthwise inside the wing and transfer bending and twisting forces during flight. EASA's emergency airworthiness directive (AD 2026-0119-E), issued on 22 June 2026, warns that the cracks could reduce the structural integrity of the wing if left unaddressed. The finding followed earlier inspections ordered in December 2025 under AD 2025-0280, when similar cracks were first reported. After evaluating the inspection results, EASA concluded that additional special detailed inspections were necessary for 16 specific aircraft identified by serial number.

This condition, if not detected and corrected, could reduce the structural integrity of the wing.

Affected fleet and operator response

Of the 16 jets singled out, 15 belong to Emirates, the world's largest A380 operator with a fleet of more than 100 of the double-deck airliners. One is operated by Qantas, currently undergoing maintenance in Dresden, Germany. Lufthansa, which flies eight A380s from its Munich hub, said none of its aircraft showed similar cracks. Emirates stated that inspections would begin within 48 hours and any necessary repairs completed before returning the planes to passenger service.

Inspections will begin within the next 48 hours and all necessary work will be carried out before the aircraft are returned to service.

Urgent and phased inspections

The directive imposes a two-tier schedule. Five Emirates aircraft must be inspected immediately, before their next flight, with checks beginning on Wednesday 24 June. The remaining 11 jets may be checked later, but must undergo inspection within 25 flight cycles. Ferry flights without passengers to maintenance facilities are permitted under the order.

Cost estimates and historical parallels

Airbus estimates that the inspections and any necessary repairs could cost the company around €100 million. The European manufacturer, together with EASA, will determine whether structural repairs are required. The A380, which can seat up to 850 passengers and has a wingspan of nearly 80 metres, has faced wing crack issues before. In 2012, EASA ordered fleet-wide inspections after cracks were found in wing rib feet, leading to a costly modification programme and changes to the production process. Airbus ceased building the A380 in 2021 after 251 deliveries, with Emirates remaining its largest customer by far.