Airbus must inspect older planes for manufacturing defects that could cause cracks

The US aviation regulator is requiring Airbus to inspect certain A330 planes for manufacturing defects. These inspections will check for incorrect shot peening, a process that strengthens metal, which could lead to cracks in critical parts.

A manufacturing error from 2008 means that some Airbus A330 planes might have weaker parts than intended. Airlines will now have to pull these planes from service for detailed inspections, which could lead to repairs and downtime. This is a routine safety measure, but it highlights how long it can take for manufacturing issues to surface and require fleet-wide action.