Airbus must fix loose rivets on some A320s, or ground them

The US aviation regulator is ordering Airbus to fix a manufacturing defect on some of its A319 and A320 airplanes. Rivet holes were left unplugged after certain modifications, which could lead to fatigue damage and structural failure.

Airlines operating these specific Airbus models now have a mandatory repair to complete. This is a routine safety directive, but it highlights the ongoing need for meticulous maintenance and inspection even on widely used aircraft. The cost of these inspections and repairs falls on the airlines, not the manufacturer, for these specific planes.