Airbus identifies manufacturing fault

AIR TRANSPORT   AIRBUS   MANUFACTURING

Global - Airbus has discovered that the cracks found on the wings of its A380s are a result of manufacturing processes and materials used.

The aircraft manufacturer told Bloomberg that they are working on a two-step fix of the cracked wing brackets found during inspections.

Tom Williams, head of programmes at Airbus said the cracks are due to the less-flexible aluminium alloy used for the wing brackets, the way they are fastened and the pressure involved in fitting the wings together.

However, as the wings aren't responsible for carrying the load, the planes are still safe for flying.

He added that short-terms steps are in place to address the issue, while the company is working on a long-term solution.

Short-term repairs include replacing the faulty wing bracket with a new one and will take five days for each plane. New materials and different assembling method would be part of the longer term solution.

Hairline cracks have been discovered in the wings of A380 wings since late December, including those found by Singapore Airlines and Qantas earlier this month.

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