EASA SIB 2018-19
FlySmart+ Applications for iPad — Change of Runway Entry Not Taken Into Account in Take-Off Computation
Summary
EASA Safety Information Bulletin 2018-19 addresses an issue in the FlySmart+ Applications for iPad affecting Airbus A318, A319, A320, A321, A330, and A340 aircraft. The bulletin highlights a problem where changing the runway entry via the graphical runway depiction does not update take-off performance data correctly in the take-off computation. This can lead to misleading takeoff performance information being displayed to flight crews.
What Changed
This bulletin informs operators about the identified software error in FlySmart+ iPad TakeOff application version 3.5.2 and earlier, which fails to update take-off parameters when the runway entry is changed graphically. Airbus has released an updated software version 3.5.3 to correct this issue and issued a Flight Operations Telex (FOT Ref. 999.0086/18) to support implementation.
Why It Matters
The issue is critical because inaccurate take-off performance data can compromise flight safety, especially during high-workload phases such as taxiing. Operators relying on the FlySmart+ suite must be aware of the risk that discrepancies in take-off data may go unnoticed, potentially affecting operational decision-making and compliance with performance requirements.
What To Do
Operators should promptly implement the FlySmart+ application update to version 3.5.3 as detailed in Airbus FOT Ref. 999.0086/18. Until the update is fully deployed, flight crews must be informed not to use the graphical runway depiction to recompute take-off data and to cross-check performance data with the Flight Management System PERF T.O page. National authorities are recommended to ensure affected operators follow these instructions.