Key Airbus A320 Cockpit Systems You Should Know ECAM: Central system for monitoring and managing aircraft status and alerts. FMGC: Controls navigation, flight plans, and autopilot/autothrust guidance. MCDU: Interface where pilots input flight plan data and performance parameters. PFD & ND: Displays for essential flight and navigation data. Overhead Panel: Central hub for managing electrical, […]
Category Archives: Airbus A320
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Jul
Jul
The Airbus A320 is renowned for its advanced fly-by-wire technology and sophisticated onboard systems, one of the most critical being its electrical power system. From engine generators to backup batteries, the A320’s electrical network ensures seamless power distribution across all aircraft systems, in both routine and emergency operations. In this article, we’ll break down the […]
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Overseeing the proper shutdown of the APU MASTER SW when using bleed air is key to maintaining your A320’s turbine health and operational reliability. When you engage the shutdown sequence, an automatic cool-down phase managed by the ECB prevents heat soak damage, protecting internal components from thermal stress. Skipping this phase by cutting power immediately […]
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Jun
Jun
Welcome to the fascinating world of Airbus A320 flight control, where innovation meets precision. In this article, we’ll embark on an enlightening journey to demystify the core principles of Normal Law, a critical component of the Airbus A320’s advanced fly-by-wire flight control system. Prepare to elevate your understanding of how this remarkable aircraft maintains its […]
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Welcome to the essential guide to one of the Airbus A320’s most crucial safety features: Alpha Floor Protection! Whether you’re an aspiring pilot, a seasoned aviation enthusiast, or simply curious about the sophisticated systems that keep our skies safe, understanding Alpha Floor is key. This article will demystify this vital aspect of the A320’s flight […]
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You’ll encounter the flight path vector, commonly called the “bird,” as one of two primary flying references on your A320’s Primary Flight Display. This symbol appears only when TRK/FPA mode is selected on the Flight Control Unit, providing real-time trajectory information computed from IRS and static pressure data. While the bird offers valuable guidance for […]
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The RAT is located beneath the aircraft fuselage and deploys automatically during critical engine failure scenarios when hydraulic power is lost. Unlike the Boeing design, older A320 models feature a switch on an A320 on the emergency electrical configuration panel that can manually deploy the unit. Pilots training in a simulator learn that RAT extension is […]
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The Door/Oxygen (DOOR/OXY) System Display (SD) page on the Airbus A320’s ECAM shows door statuses, slide arming, crew oxygen pressure, and cabin vertical speed. It’s essential during preflight, taxi, emergency procedures, or unusual cabin events. 1. Door Status Indicators Cabin, Avionic & Emergency Doors Green outline – closed Amber – open Amber “X” – no status […]
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Jun
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Airbus A320’s Flight Management and Guidance Computer (FMGC) represents the digital brain that orchestrates your aircraft’s automated flight operations from gate to gate. When you’re programming routes, managing descents, or executing precision approaches, you’re interfacing with one of aviation’s most sophisticated automation systems. The FMGC doesn’t just follow your commands—it anticipates flight requirements, calculates optimal […]
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Pilots who’ve logged thousands of hours on the Airbus A320 might think they know everything about this workhorse of commercial aviation, but you’d be surprised by the hidden engineering marvels and operational secrets that lie beneath its familiar cockpit. While you’re comfortable with your daily pre-flight routines and standard operating procedures, the A320 family harbors […]