Airbus and Leonardo are investigating a manufacturing defect involving missing protective primer on fuselage stringers fitted to approximately 500 A321neo aircraft. The primer is intended to protect the structural components against corrosion, particularly in moisture-prone areas.

The defect is not considered an immediate flight-safety concern. However, around 20 new aircraft deliveries have reportedly been delayed, while affected aircraft already in service will require corrective work within two years. Repairs are expected to take up to nine days per aircraft, adding pressure to Airbus’s already demanding delivery schedule.

Rolls-Royce will invest £300 million ($398 million) across five UK facilities to meet rising manufacturing demand and support future commercial and defence aerospace programmes. More than £140 million will expand engineering, production and aftermarket capacity in Derby, while over £90 million will upgrade its Bristol military-engine facility. Further investment will support component production at Inchinnan, double turbine-blade output at Rotherham by 2030, and improve manufacturing efficiency at Ansty.

The US Federal Aviation Administration has delayed certification of the Boeing 737 MAX 10 following the identification of a flight-guidance software issue. The problem could prevent certain automated guidance functions from being available during a go-around or missed approach, potentially increasing pilot workload at a critical stage of flight.

Boeing and software supplier GE Aerospace are working with regulators on a permanent solution. Although pilots would retain control of the aircraft, some airlines have deferred accepting aircraft fitted with the affected software. The delay creates further uncertainty over the MAX 10’s certification timetable and planned deliveries to major airline customers.