KUWAIT CITY, Nov 29: Kuwait Airways said Saturday it was among the first global carriers to implement a preventative software update on its Airbus A320 fleet in recent hours, a move it described as essential to maintaining the highest levels of safety and security.

Acting CEO Abdulwahab Al-Shatti told Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) that some of the mandatory updates required temporary flight-schedule adjustments, particularly affecting night and early-morning operations. He apologized to passengers for any inconvenience, stressing that the A320 fleet continues to operate in line with the strictest international safety standards and in full coordination with relevant authorities. Al-Shatti affirmed that Kuwait Airways places the safety and comfort of its customers “above all else.”

Earlier in the day, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) announced that Airbus had issued a global technical circular mandating updates to several safety-related systems on its A320 aircraft. DGCA spokesperson Abdullah Al-Rajhi told KUNA the procedures form part of international mandatory requirements aimed at enhancing operational safety for one of the world’s most widely used aircraft types. He noted that applying these updates may lead to minor delays or limited rescheduling in the coming period. Al-Rajhi added that ensuring the safety of passengers and flight crews remains a top DGCA priority, as part of continuous efforts to uphold the highest standards of safety and quality in Kuwait’s aviation sector.

Kuwait Airways, in a separate press release, said the software updates are being carried out based on recommendations from Airbus. The airline reiterated that the work reflects its commitment to the highest standards of passenger safety and security and confirmed that several flights will be delayed as a result. The company advised customers to contact its call center for inquiries via 171 within Kuwait or +965 24345555 (ext. 171) from abroad, as well as through WhatsApp at +965 1802050.

In a related statement, Jazeera Airways said its engineering and operations teams are working to implement the required technical procedures to ensure full compliance with the directive. The airline noted that it does not expect the updates to significantly impact its fleet operations or flight schedule. Jazeera reaffirmed that safety remains its top priority, expressing appreciation to Airbus, the DGCA, and its internal teams for their swift and professional response in carrying out the measures mandated by the European Aviation Safety Agency.

Abdullah Al-Rajhi, spokesperson for the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)

Acting CEO of Kuwait Airways Abdulwahab Al-Shatti