Six Qantas A380 jumbos to be inspected after cracks were found in wings of early production

Inspections have been ordered on older Airbus A380 superjumbo jets, including six Qantas planes, after cracks were detected in wings on the world’s largest passenger aircraft.

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European regulators have ordered inspections on older Airbus A380 superjumbo jets, including six Qantas planes, after cracks were detected in wings on the world’s largest passenger aircraft.

“We confirm that small cracks have been found on the outer rear wing spars of early production A380 aircraft. We have identified the issue and designed an inspection and repair scheme,” an Airbus spokesman said.

Six A380 Qantas jumbos will be sent for inspections after cracks were found in wings of early production of A380s. Picture: AAP Image/Dan Himbrechts

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The European Union Aviation Safety Agency said the condition, if not detected and corrected, could reduce the structural integrity of the wing.

In a statement, Australia’s largest airline said no cracks have been identified at this stage.

“Qantas has six A380s, out of the global fleet of 25 affected aircraft, which require inspection in the next few years for fine cracks in the ‘outer rear spar’ — a part within the wing.”

The head of Engineering for Qantas, Chris Snook said inspections are not required on these aircraft for another year or two and are being done well in advance of the required time frames.

Qantas said no cracks had been identified at this stage.

“We have completed inspections on two aircraft and there were no concerns with the structural integrity of the wing.”

One was completed in March and the other in July alongside scheduled maintenance.

Airbus said under the inspection and repair regime the ongoing safe operation (airworthiness) of the A380 fleet is not affected.