The Airbus A320 is a twin-engine narrow-body airliner that revolutionized commercial aviation as the world’s first fully fly-by-wire passenger jet. Launched in 1988, the A320 quickly became one of the best-selling aircraft in history, known for its fuel efficiency, advanced avionics, and operational flexibility. It serves short to medium-haul routes and forms the foundation of the A320 family, including the A318, A319, and A321.

The A320’s wide adoption by both full-service and low-cost carriers makes it one of the most recognizable aircraft in the world.

Key Specifications (A320-200)

• Crew: 2 (Pilots).
• Capacity: Typically 150–186 passengers (up to 194 in high-density layouts).
• Length: 37.57 m (123 ft 3 in).
• Wingspan: 35.80 m (117 ft 5 in) with Sharklets.
• Height: 11.76 m (38 ft 7 in).
• Max Takeoff Weight (MTOW): Up to 78,000 kg (172,000 lb).
• Engines: 2× CFM International CFM56-5B or IAE V2500 turbofans.
• Cruise Speed: Mach 0.78 (~828 km/h or 514 mph).
• Range: ~6,100 km (3,800 mi).
• Ceiling: ~39,000 ft (11,900 m).

Notable Features

• First commercial jet with full fly-by-wire controls, setting the industry standard.
• Advanced glass cockpit with side-stick controls for pilot ease.
• Highly fuel-efficient, with newer models incorporating Sharklets for further savings.
• Standardized cockpit design, allowing pilots to easily transition between A318, A319, and A321 models.
• A key player in low-cost carrier fleets, reducing per-seat operational costs.

Variants

• A320-100 – Early production model with lower MTOW and range (limited production).
• A320-200 – Main production version with increased fuel capacity and improved efficiency.
• A320neo – New-generation model with more efficient engines (CFM LEAP-1A or PW1100G), improved range, and lower emissions.

Operators & Usage

• One of the most widely used aircraft, flown by Airbus customers worldwide.
• Flagship aircraft for low-cost airlines like EasyJet, JetBlue, and IndiGo.
• Used by legacy carriers including Lufthansa, British Airways, American Airlines, and Air France.
• Popular for charter operations and corporate transport due to its flexibility and efficiency.