A320 Operating Manual - Delta Virtual Airlines

Tutorial-How to Fly the A320
Airbus 320 Operating Manual
In this brief tutorial, we’ll introduce you to your new work environment and
briefly describe some of the pertinent systems on the A320 to better familiarize
yourself with the procedures. We will be going through the various checklist
“flows” and then fly a short hop to cover all of the phases of flying this aircraft.
We will also provide some useful operating techniques that you may find helpful.
TRANSITIONING TO AN AIRBUS 320
If you are accustomed to flying more “traditional” aircraft such as the Boeing or
McDonnell Douglas fleets, the move to an Airbus aircraft may be a bit confusing.
Aside from the computerized systems throughout the aircraft, there are two main
areas that you should be aware of prior to starting. These are the thrust levers
and the flap settings.
Unlike other aircraft,
Airbus has done away
with the throttle levers
that give the pilot direct
control of engine thrust.
Instead, the Airbus 320
is equipped with thrust
levers that feature
several position detents
and modes of operation.
While on the ground, the
pilot can move the
thrust levers to indicate
the desired thrust
setting. The computer will then command the engines accordingly. When taking
off, the thrust levers are moved to either the TOGA (Take Off/Go Around) detent
or the “Flex” detent if a de-rated takeoff is being performed. In this detent,
the
computer will automatically apply the proper amount of thrust needed for
takeoff. The easiest way to do this in Fight Sim is to press the F4 key on your
keyboard.
Once the aircraft is stable and climbing, the computer will instruct the pilot to
move the levers to the Climb detent. Pressing the F2 key will do this for you. The
throttle levers will remain in this detent until the landing phase.
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