Air New Zealand and Jetstar passengers have faced widespread disruption after the airlines confirmed a global software problem has affected Airbus A320neo aircraft.

In a statement, Air NZ said it is dealing with “a global software issue impacting Airbus A320neo aircraft.” It said every A320neo in its fleet will receive a software update before operating its next passenger service.

Air New Zealand said this precautionary requirement has led to significant disruption across A320neo flights and that “a number of cancellations” are expected throughout the day.

The airline said customers will be contacted directly if their service is affected and advised travellers to check the Air New Zealand app or website for the latest information.

Air New Zealand said it understands the frustration passengers are experiencing and thanked people for their “patience, kindness and understanding.”

Jetstar has also been affected because it operates the same type of Airbus aircraft.

“Due to an issue affecting Airbus A320 operators globally, some of Jetstar’s Airbus-operated flights are unable to depart at this stage”, the airline said in a statement.

“We’re working through the impacts on our fleet and to our customers. We’ll have more information shortly.

“We apologise to customers for the inconvenience caused.”

Airbus said it was ordering a software patch for a significant number of its A320 family of aircraft.

“Analysis of a recent event involving an A320 Family aircraft has revealed that intense solar radiation may corrupt data critical to the functioning of flight controls,” Airbus said in a statement.

“Airbus has consequently identified a significant number of A320 Family aircraft currently in-service which may be impacted.”