FSX TAM Airbus A320

This freeware release features the accurate portrayal of a Star Alliance-liveried TAM Airbus A320, authored by Lucas Nonato Castro. The included model reflects the characteristics of a short-to-medium range narrow-body jet, widely popular in commercial aviation. Its distinct markings highlight TAM’s membership in the global alliance, adding extra realism to your simulation sessions.

Historical Context of the Aircraft

The Airbus A320 is a pivotal narrow-body platform designed primarily for short and intermediate distances. Known for its fly-by-wire control system, automated flight augmentation, and efficient operating economics, it significantly changed cockpit procedures when introduced in the late 1980s. TAM’s adoption of the A320 allowed for effective regional coverage, while Star Alliance branding underscored the airline’s global partnerships.

Foundations of This Project

Early Beginnings and Evolution

Project Airbus was formed during an era when home flight simulation was transitioning from basic models to intricate recreations of full-scale commercial aircraft. Initially, Thomas Ruth and Trevor Slack collaborated on an A300, with assistance from Nicholas Wu for textures, pioneering several never-before-seen simulation features. That breakthrough led to their subsequent success with the original A320 version, which earned high acclaim in the community for its refined detail and innovative mechanisms.

Although the team encountered hurdles in 2003, they regrouped with new contributors, setting in motion the redevelopment of the A320. After several years, the current refined edition emerged, offering a more advanced rendition of Airbus engineering. Contrary to many payware options, this freeware initiative remains a labor of passion, which is evident in its immersive capabilities.

Important Model Compatibility Notes

Support Disclaimer: While originally tested and suited for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004 (also known as A Century of Flight), there were no formal development plans at the time to ensure seamless compatibility with Microsoft Flight Simulator X. Users should be aware of potential differences that may arise if using alternate simulators.

Feedback and Suggestions: Enthusiasts are welcome to share their impressions and further input with the Project Airbus community, fostering continued enhancement of the platform.

Installation Guidelines

• Unpack the ZIP archive into the “Aircraft” folder within your main Flight Simulator 9 directory.
• Transfer the contents of the Effects folder into the base “Effects” directory of your simulator.

Ensure that file paths remain intact, preserving folder structures for proper aircraft and effects functionality.

Key Technical Highlights

The Project Airbus A320 incorporates multiple XML-driven elements and accurate visual details:

• Pressurization Outflow Valve – Dynamically modulates cabin pressure, opening below 30 knots on the ground.
• Ground Spoilers – Deploy for improved deceleration upon touchdown.
• Pack Outlets – Adjust venting according to external temperature variables.
• Idle Reversers – Stay deployed briefly after deactivation, fully open under idle reverse thrust configuration.
• Parallel Bogies – Applied specifically when using a dual-bogey variant (e.g., those employed by certain carriers).
• Dynamic Jetwash – Visible only in active engine states.
• Drooping Control Surfaces – Elevators and ailerons slacken upon engine shutdown.

Additionally, this A320 features opening doors for both passengers and cargo, specialized lighting effects for strobes, navigational beacons, and touchdown animations. Beyond that, users gain wing views, thorough landing gear extension modeling, and exterior shine to match real-world aircraft reflective properties.

Door Commands

L1

Use the standard Exit key command (Shift + E).

L2 & Cargo Areas

Controlled by the tail hook function (unassigned by default).

R1 & R2

Managed via the wing fold command (unassigned by default).

Acknowledgments to the Team

Creative and technical work behind this freeware involved numerous individuals who contributed modeling, texturing, coding, and feedback:

• External Model Design: Andy Warden
• Virtual Cockpit and XML Coding: Thomas Ruth
• Flight Dynamics and Sound Engineering: Peter Binamira
• Base Textures and Liveries: Demetris Themistocleous
• Additional Texture Work: Alessandro Savarese
• Livery Contributions: John Tavendale, Derek Mayer
• Project Organization: Matthew Murray
• Imagery and Feedback: Gianmarco Bettiol, Nick Wu, Trevor Slack, Alexander Kvitta, David Bromwich

The team also extends special recognition to guest artists, including Ben Jones, Dickson Chan, Jaco du Preez, Sheldon Fernandes, and Terence Pereira, along with flight dynamics input from Capt. Manny Osias, F/O Spike Acenas, Mark Bolatete, and Kester Masias.