Aviation News – Qantas Airbus A380 forced to halt operations in Los Angeles after passengers spotted wing damage mid-flight, marking a troubled return for the long-parked superjumbo.
Qantas has grounded one of its Airbus A380s in Los Angeles after damage to a wing slat was discovered during its first commercial service following nearly six years in storage. The aircraft, operating flight QF11 from Sydney to Los Angeles on December 7, 2025, drew concern when passengers noticed visible damage while in flight.
The aircraft involved, registered VH-OQC, had recently rejoined the fleet as Qantas continues restoring long-haul capacity. Its return was intended to bolster demand on transpacific routes, making the unexpected defect a setback for the airline’s A380 reactivation program.
Initial assessments indicate the damage was located on a left-wing slat—part of the high-lift system used during takeoff and landing. While the aircraft landed safely in Los Angeles, engineers grounded the jet for detailed inspection to determine the cause, impact, and required repairs.