Introduction to the Aerosoft Airbus A318/319/320/321 Professional

The Airbus A320 family—including the A318, A319, A320, and A321—is one of the most successful commercial aircraft families ever built. The Aerosoft Airbus A318/319/320/321 Professional replicates these aircraft with an impressive depth of system simulation, making it the preferred choice for virtual airline pilots who demand realism. Whether you are flying for a virtual airline on VATSIM, IVAO, or a standalone VA, proper setup and operational knowledge are essential to deliver a reliable, professional flight experience.

This guide walks through every step of setting up and operating the Aerosoft Airbus for virtual airline operations, from initial installation and configuration to advanced procedures like fuel planning, non-normal checklists, and integration with online networks and flight‑tracking tools. By the end, you will have a comprehensive understanding of how to fly this add‑on as if you were sitting on the flight deck of a real Airbus.

Getting Started with the Aerosoft Airbus A318/319/320/321

Before you can operate the aircraft, it must be correctly installed and initialized. The add‑on is available from the Aerosoft Shop or through partners like Steam. Always download the latest version to ensure compatibility with your simulator (P3D v4/v5 or FSX). Run the installer as Administrator and select the desired variant and visual models (e.g., Sharklets vs. conventional wingtips). Once installed, launch your simulator; the aircraft will appear in the “Aerosoft Airbus A318/319/320/321” category.

Initial Cockpit Familiarization

Take time to explore the virtual cockpit. The Aerosoft Airbus features a fully clickable 3D cockpit with two Primary Flight Displays (PFDs), two Navigation Displays (NDs), the Engine/Warning Display (E/WD), the System Display (SD), and the Multi‑Control Display Units (MCDUs). The ECAM (Electronic Centralized Aircraft Monitoring) panel is located on the center pedestal. Every switch, knob, and display is functional. Use the mouse or a customized button profile to interact with the overhead panel, center pedestal, and glareshield. The first‑time user should load the aircraft in a cold‑and‑dark state to learn proper startup flows.

Software Configuration and Simulator Settings

Inside the Aerosoft configuration tool (accessible from the Windows Start menu), set your preferences:

  • Display Options: Brightness, font sizes, and whether to use 2D pop‑up panels for the MCDU.
  • Sound: Enable or disable cockpit sounds, engine spool‑up, and external environment sounds.
  • Failure Simulation: Activate random or scheduled failures for realistic airline operations.
  • Fuel and Loading: Choose the integrated fuel planner or a third‑party tool (e.g., SimBrief, PFPX).
  • ATC Compatibility: Ensure the aircraft’s transponder mode matches your network (VATSIM/IVAO).

In your simulator’s settings, disable any auto‑rudder, auto‑mixture, or auto‑prop features—these are not present in the real Airbus. Set realism sliders to “Hard” to disable unrealistic assists like auto‑trim and unlimited fuel.

Configuring the Airbus for Virtual Airline Operations

Virtual airline operations require the aircraft to be configured precisely to the flight plan. This means setting the correct weight, fuel, and center of gravity, then programming the Flight Management and Guidance System (FMGS) through the MCDU.

Fuel and Payload Planning

Use the integrated Aerosoft Fuel Planner or a dedicated external tool like SimBrief to load your flight plan. Input the number of passengers, cargo weight, and fuel quantities. The A320 family typically carries between 15 and 25 metric tons of fuel depending on range. Ensure the aircraft is within its maximum zero‑fuel weight (MZFW) and maximum takeoff weight (MTOW). For the A321, MTOW can reach 93,500 kg; for the A318, it is around 68,000 kg. Check your virtual airline’s dispatch documents to match the payload to passenger counts and cargo manifests.

In the aircraft’s payload screen (FSX/P3D), drag the payload sliders for each station to match the manifest. Then open the Aerosoft fuel menu and enter the planned block fuel. The aircraft’s fuel tanks are automatically balanced by the Fuel Quantity Indication System (FQIS).

Programming the MCDU for Complex Routes

The MCDU is the central interface for flight planning. Enter your route step by step:

  1. INIT A/B pages: Input origin/destination airports, flight number, cost index (CI), cruise altitude, and alternate airport. The CI is a key parameter—virtual airlines often use a fixed CI (e.g., 20–40 for short haul). The FMGS will calculate optimal speed and fuel burn based on CI.
  2. FPLN page: Enter waypoints, airways, and SIDs/STARs. Use the latest navigational data from Navigraph or Aerosoft’s NavDataPro. For airline realism, load the company route if your virtual airline provides one.
  3. RAD NAV page: Verify navaids (VOR, DME, ILS) are correct and that the FMGS can automatically tune them.
  4. PERF pages: Set takeoff thrust (TOGA or FLEX), FLAPS, V speeds (V1, VR, V2) computed by the MCDU based on weight and runway conditions, and landing performance factors. The MCDU will calculate V speeds after you enter the wind, temperature, and runway length.
  5. SEC FPLN: You can store a secondary flight plan for an alternate route or a diversion—useful for long‑range A321 operations.

Always cross‑check the MCDU’s computed route with a paper chart or a third‑party moving map like Little Navmap.

Operating the Airbus A318/319/320/321: Standard Operating Procedures

The A320 family is highly automated, but the pilot must still perform key actions at each phase. Use a printed checklist or an electronic checklist (e.g., on a tablet) to follow real‑world SOPs.

Pre‑Flight and Cockpit Setup

Enter the cockpit in cold‑and‑dark state. Complete the following flows:

  • External Power: Connect external power (APU or ground GPU).
  • Battery: Turn on the BAT1 and BAT2 switches. Check ECAM status.
  • APU Start: Press the APU MASTER switch and then the START button. Wait for the APU to stabilize and show AVAIL. Transfer electrical power to the APU generator.
  • Pneumatics: Open the APU bleed valve to pressurize the pneumatic system for engine start.
  • FMGS Initialization: Enter the flight plan in the MCDU (as described above).
  • MCDU PERF Takeoff Page: Enter takeoff data: FLAPS (generally 1, 2, or 3), V speeds, FLEX temperature (if applying assumed temperature thrust reduction).
  • Autopilot Preselection: Set the initial altitude, heading, and speed on the FCU (Flight Control Unit).

Engine Start and Taxi

After pushback (request via virtual ATC or a pushback tool), start engine 2 (right) first, then engine 1. Watch the ECAM engine page for N1, N2, EGT, and oil pressure. Once both engines are stable: set the parking brake off, release the external power, and advance thrust levers to taxi power (approximately 35% N1). The Airbus nose wheel steering is handled by the tiller (in the cockpit) or differential braking. Follow taxi instructions precisely, using the ND to monitor your position on the airport diagram.

Takeoff and Climb

At the holding point, complete the final pre‑takeoff checks: flight controls full and free, trim set, flaps as configured, and the autobrake set (for normal ops, set to MAX or MED). Line up on the runway, push the thrust levers to the FLX/MCT detent (or TOGA for maximum performance). The aircraft will automatically compute the FLEX thrust reduction if selected. Monitor the speed tape; at VR, rotate smoothly to about 12–15 degrees pitch. At a positive rate of climb, retract the landing gear and flaps according to the MCDU’s flap retraction schedule. Engage the autopilot above 100 feet AGL (minimum 200 feet for airline procedures).

Cruise Management

During cruise, the autopilot holds altitude and heading. The FMGS manages the speed based on cost index. The ECAM system displays engine parameters and fuel flow. Periodically check the Progress page on the MCDU for time to destination, fuel remaining, and top‑of‑descent point. If flying online, monitor the VHF radios and transponder mode (C or S) per network rules. Use the ATC panel to change frequencies and respond to clearance messages.

Descent, Approach, and Landing

At top‑of‑descent (T/D), reduce thrust to idle and set the speed window on the FCU to the published approach speed. Arm the ILS or RNAV approach via the MCDU. Use managed descent (DES) or selected descent (open descent) as appropriate. Configure the aircraft: at the start of the approach, set flaps 1, then flaps 2, gear down, flaps 3, and finally flaps full. The autobrake should be set to DECEL or LOW for a firm stop. As you intercept the glideslope and localizer (or final approach course in RNAV), ensure the flight directors command the correct path. Disconnect the autopilot at decision height (DH) or by 200 feet AGL and hand‑fly the landing. Complete the landing flow: reduce thrust to idle, flare, hold the nose off, and apply reverse thrust and braking as needed.

Post‑Landing and Shutdown

After vacating the runway, clean up: flaps up, spoilers retracted, autobrake off, transponder to STBY. Taxi to the gate, set the parking brake, and shut down engines. Apply the engine shutdown checklist: fuel pumps off, APU master on (if needed), then APU bleed off. Remove external power and close up the cockpit for logbook entry.

Advanced Procedures for Virtual Airline Realism

To elevate your virtual airline flying beyond the basics, incorporate company‑specific procedures and real‑world practices.

Non‑Normal Operations and ECAM Actions

The Aerosoft Airbus simulates a wide range of failures—engine fire, hydraulic leak, electrical bus failure, and more. When a failure occurs, the ECAM displays an action message in the E/WD and a status message on the SD. Follow the correct procedure:

  • If the message is in red, take immediate action (e.g., engine fire: close thrust lever, pull the fuel shutoff).
  • If the message is amber, acknowledge it with the EMER CANC pushbutton (if applicable) and follow the procedure displayed on the ECAM.
  • Always refer to the FCOM (Flight Crew Operating Manual) or the Aerosoft included documentation for exact steps.

Many virtual airlines require pilots to log failures in the system. Use the ACARS integration feature (if your VA supports it) to send a failure report.

Company Routes and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

Real airlines have Standard Operating Procedures that specify every action. In the virtual world, your VA may publish SOPs for the A320 family. For example:

  • Use the same flow pattern for cockpit setup (e.g., “from top to bottom, left to right”).
  • Standard callouts for the pilot‑flying (PF) and pilot‑monitoring (PM). If you fly solo, you play both roles, but you can still call out speeds and altitudes.
  • Standard flap settings for takeoff (e.g., Flaps 1+F or Flaps 2) and landing (Flaps FULL).
  • Specific cost index values (e.g., CI = 25 for European short‑haul).

Search your VA’s documentation for the fleet SOP document. If none exists, consider adopting real‑world procedures from the official Airbus FCOM (available through private libraries).

Using ACARS and Flight‑Tracking Tools

Many virtual airlines require you to use ACARS (e.g., SmartCARS, vFPS, FlightSim Commander) to log your flight. The Aerosoft Airbus includes a built‑in ACARS interface that can send data to third‑party servers. Configure the ACARS settings in the Aerosoft configuration tool with your VA’s server address and credentials. During the flight, the ACARS panel will automatically transmit fuel and position reports at defined intervals. Some VAs also require you to manually log the flight using software like FS2Crew for voice control or PACX for passenger announcements.

Integrating with Online Networks (VATSIM, IVAO)

Flying the Aerosoft Airbus on VATSIM or IVAO adds the highest level of realism. Set up your radio stack:

  1. Transponder: Ensure it is set to mode C or S (depending on the network). In the Aerosoft Airbus, the transponder panel is on the overhead. Set the code to the one assigned by ATC (e.g., 1000 for VFR, or the squawk provided).
  2. Radios: Use COM1 for ATC and COM2 for ATIS or guard frequency. Adjust the volume and squelch. The Aerosoft radio management panel mirrors the real VHF navigation and communication panel.
  3. Audio Panel: Select the active microphones and speakers.
  4. Network Software: Run vPilot (VATSIM) or IvAp/xSquawkbox (IVAO). Ensure the software is compatible with P3D/FSX and can read the aircraft’s transponder and COM frequencies.

When flying the approach, be ready for ATC vectors to the ILS. The Aerosoft Airbus allows you to select “HDG” or “TRK” mode on the FCU to follow ATC headings. For precision approaches, arm the APP mode before intercepting the localizer.

Tips for ATC Communication

  • File a proper flight plan in the network’s system (e.g., VATSIM Flight Plan). Include your aircraft type, route, and remarks about the equipment (e.g., /L for LNAV/VNAV capable).
  • Use standard phraseology even though it is a simulation. For example, “Cologne Radar, DLH123, on final, ILS Runway 24, DG842.”
  • Acknowledge clearances and read back instructions.

Checklists and Reference Materials

No airline flight is complete without checklists. The Aerosoft Airbus includes a built‑in checklist that appears on the SD when you press the CLR button. However, for realism, print or use a tablet version of the official A320/319/321 checklists. You can find them on the Aerosoft community forums or on websites like the AVSIM Library.

Also consider subscribing to Navigraph for updated navdata and charts—critical for flying modern procedures. Their charts service provides all airport diagrams, SIDs, STARs, and approach plates. For failure recognition, refer to the Aerosoft Airbus A318/319/320/321 Manual (PDF) located in your simulator’s installation folder. It covers every system in detail.

Optimizing Performance for Virtual Airline Flights

To ensure your flight runs smoothly and meets virtual airline requirements, manage your simulator settings:

  • Set terrain, mesh complexity, and scenery density to medium‑high. The Aerosoft Airbus is relatively performance‑friendly, but detailed airports (e.g., Aerosoft’s own airports) may require lowering autogen and clouds.
  • Disable unnecessary add‑ons like AI traffic to reduce CPU load when flying into busy hubs.
  • Use the aircraft’s “economic” settings to load only the needed cockpit textures and avoid excessive reflections.
  • If you experience stuttering during landing, reduce the aircraft shadow quality or disable shadow maps.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced virtual pilots make mistakes. Here are frequent issues and fixes:

  • Overstressing the aircraft: Keep speeds within the Vmo/Mmo envelope. The ECAM overspeed warning is real; reduce thrust or adjust pitch immediately.
  • Incorrect weight or CG: Always verify the MCDU’s weight page matches the actual loaded fuel and payload. A rear‑heavy CG can cause pitch‑up tendencies.
  • Forgot to arm the APU before start: The APU must be available before engine start to provide bleed air. Check the APU page on the SD.
  • Autoland failures: The Aerosoft Airbus supports autoland only if the runways have an ILS that is properly tuned. Ensure you have selected the correct ILS frequency and the MCDU approach page is active.
  • Network disconnections: If you fly on VATSIM, use a wired internet connection to avoid dropouts. Check that your transponder is seen by the network by using the “Squawk Ident” test.

Final Thoughts on Realism and Immersion

Flying the Aerosoft Airbus A318/319/320/321 Professional for a virtual airline is about more than just starting the engines and using the autopilot. True realism comes from following company procedures, embracing failure scenarios, communicating with ATC in real time, and ensuring your aircraft is configured exactly as an airline would. Join a virtual airline that operates a fleet of A320 family aircraft and offers structured training. Many VAs have dedicated A320 pilot training programs with mentoring and line checks. This transforms a hobby into a deeply immersive experience that mirrors the discipline of real‑world aviation.

For further reading, consult the Aerosoft Airbus Manual and the detailed Airbus FCOM available from online libraries. Pair your simulator with Navigraph Charts and SimBrief dispatch to streamline pre‑flight planning. And always remember: in the Airbus, fly the aircraft first, then manage the automation. With practice, the Aerosoft A320 family will become an extension of your flying skills, ready for any virtual airline operation.