Airbus A320

First "Fly-By-Wire" Flight Control System

The A320 is probably the best known as the first airliner to introduce a fly-by-wire flight control system – where control inputs from the pilot are transmitted to the flying surfaces by electronic signals rather than mechanical means. The advantage of Airbus’ fly-by-wire, apart from a small weight saving, is that as it is computer controlled, an inbuilt flight envelope protection makes it impossible to exceed certain flight parameters such as G-limits and the aircraft’s maximum and minimum operating speeds and attack limits angle.

Flightdeck

Another integral part of the A320 is the advanced electronic flight deck, which features six fully integrated EFIS colour displays and innovative sidestick controllers rather than conventional control columns. Compared to earlier designs, the A320 employs a relatively high percentage of composite materials. Two engines, the CFM56 and IAE V2500, are offered.

Sharklets

The A320 was the first version in Airbus’ single-aisle product line to be delivered with the new “Sharklets” large wingtip devices. These devices are designed to enhance the eco-efficiency and payload-range performance of the A320 Family. Sharklets result in up to four percent reduced fuel burn over longer sectors, corresponding to an annual reduction in CO2 emissions of around 900 tonnes per aircraft.

Cockpit

Fly-by-wire and cockpit standardization across the A320 Family are at the heart of Airbus’ commonality, which allows a pilot qualified on one Family member to fly them all, using the same type rating. Over 80 percent of operators with 10 or more A320 Family jetliners in their fleets fly more than one model of the Airbus single-aisle product line, enabling them to benefit fully from the commonality concept through more effective scheduling of aircraft and crews.

Aircraft Data

Airbus A320 Cabin Configuration

The A320’s right-sized fuselage is seven inches wider than its competitors, enhancing comfort for passengers and increasing revenue opportunities for airlines.  It enables choices of four-, five-, and six-abreast layouts with wider seats, along with opportunities for wider aisles and increased overhead storage bins.  Rapid turnaround times on the ground are further facilitated by the A320’s bigger passenger and service doors.

Airbus has developed a new interior for the A320 that brings:

• a fresh new look to the cabin,
• a significant increase in overhead stowage,
• a noticeable reduction in noise,
• options for ambiance lighting,
• lower weight of the updated interior.