Airbus reports corrosion risk in A321neo fleet, no immediate safety threat

Airbus has confirmed a quality defect in its A321neo aircraft series that could compromise corrosion resistance in the fuselage structure, affecting around 500 planes. The manufacturer stated that while the issue does not pose an immediate safety risk, it has identified the cause and developed a solution. Approximately half of the affected aircraft are already in service, with the remainder still under production. The defect involves inconsistencies in the coating of longitudinal spars, a component critical to structural integrity. Although Airbus has not halted operations, European aviation authorities may impose repair requirements moving forward, according to industry sources. This marks the second fuselage-related issue Airbus has faced in its top-selling model within nine months. The company is expanding its monthly production of narrow-body aircraft from around 60 to 75 units, reflecting ongoing demand despite the defect.