©(Takahiko Kanbara/Kyodo News via AP)
Pre-reading Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What thoughts come to mind when you think about traveling by airplane?
- What do you think makes air travel feel exciting or stressful for some people?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- malfunction /mal-FUHNGK-shuhn/
[noun] – a failure to work correctly
The computer had a malfunction during the exam and suddenly shut down. - unaffected /uhn-uh-FEK-tid/
[adjective] – not changed or harmed by something
The nearby houses stayed unaffected after the small earthquake. - interference /in-ter-FEER-uhns/
[noun] – unwanted influence or interruption that affects how something works
The radio signal became weak because of interference from a nearby tower. - stable /STEY-buhl/
[adjective] – firm, steady, and not likely to change suddenly
The company’s sales stayed stable throughout the year despite market changes. - essential /uh-SEN-shuhl/
[adjective] – very important and necessary
A good internet connection is essential for students who study online.
Article Reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Airlines in several regions began canceling and delaying flights on 29 November 2025 after aviation authorities identified a software problem in Airbus A320-family aircraft. The investigation began after an incident on 30 October 2025, when a JetBlue flight from Cancun to Newark experienced a sudden altitude drop and diverted to Tampa. Technical reviews suggested that strong solar radiation may have damaged data in the flight control system after a recent software update. Aviation agencies ordered a corrective update for more than 500 aircraft registered in the United States. The timing created pressure for carriers because the period after the Thanksgiving holiday is considered the busiest travel season. Airlines in Japan, Europe, India, and the United States prepared for possible disruptions as engineers worked to address the malfunction.
Most carriers reported that the update could be completed during routine maintenance periods, such as overnight inspections or short ground intervals. American Airlines stated that more than 200 aircraft required the reset, while All Nippon Airways canceled 65 domestic flights and announced that further delays were possible. Delta, United, and Air India described limited impact, and Hawaiian Airlines confirmed that its fleet remained unaffected. Aviation specialists explained that the A320 family is widely used and plays an important role in global travel. Experts noted that the situation highlighted the need for digital systems that can handle environmental interference. Analysts added that careful repairs, stable operations, and continued monitoring are essential for long-term aviation safety.
Most carriers reported that the update could be completed during routine maintenance periods, such as overnight inspections or short ground intervals. American Airlines stated that more than 200 aircraft required the reset, while All Nippon Airways canceled 65 domestic flights and announced that further delays were possible. Delta, United, and Air India described limited impact, and Hawaiian Airlines confirmed that its fleet remained unaffected. Aviation specialists explained that the A320 family is widely used and plays an important role in global travel. Experts noted that the situation highlighted the need for digital systems that can handle environmental interference. Analysts added that careful repairs, stable operations, and continued monitoring are essential for long-term aviation safety.
Comprehension Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- What happened to the JetBlue flight from Cancun to Newark on 30 October 2025?
- Where did the JetBlue flight land after the sudden altitude drop?
- What did technical reviews suggest caused damage to the flight control data?
- Why did the timing of the problem create pressure for carriers?
- What did airlines in Japan, Europe, India, and the United States prepare for?
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever been on a flight that was delayed or changed suddenly? If so, how did you feel during the delay? If not, how do you think you would feel if your flight was delayed?
- Have you ever traveled during a busy holiday season? If so, what was the experience like for you? If not, when do you think travel might be the busiest in your country?
- Do you agree that digital systems on planes should be checked often to avoid future risks?
- What could airlines do to help passengers stay calm when there are sudden disruptions?
- What do you think passengers should do when a flight is delayed or diverted to another city?