FAA Requires Software Updates to Fix Airbus Engine Power Surges
Published Date: 10/15/2025
Rule
Summary
The FAA is making a new rule for certain Airbus A330 and A320 series airplanes because pilots noticed the engines sometimes act funny during descent with the autopilot throttle on. To fix this, airlines must update the flight computer settings by October 30, 2025. This change keeps flights safer and might cost some time and money to update, but it’s worth it to avoid engine trouble.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Airlines must update flight computers
If you operate certain Airbus A330 or A320-family airplanes, you must modify the flight management guidance envelope computers (FMGECs) to activate the autothrottle (ATHR) N1 function by October 30, 2025. The change is required by FAA AD 2025-20-16 and follows EASA AD 2025-0178 to prevent reported thrust fluctuations during descent that could lead to an unstabilized approach.
Estimated compliance cost to operators
The FAA estimates this AD affects 144 U.S.-registered airplanes and costs about 2 work-hours at $85 per hour, or $170 per airplane, for required actions (total estimated cost to U.S. operators: $24,480). The FAA also lists optional actions of up to 3 work-hours, estimated at $255 per airplane.
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