FSX Easyjet Airbus A320-214

This complete freeware release showcases an EasyJet-branded Airbus A320-214, featuring the airline’s 200th-aircraft paint scheme (registration G-EZUI, construction number 4721). Included is the entire Project Airbus A320-200 package with CFM engines, repainted by Paul Craig for seamless integration into Microsoft Flight Simulator. EasyJet, known for high-frequency routes across Europe, frequently operates the advanced A320 series, which combines efficient fuel consumption with spacious cabin layouts.

Highlighted Visuals and In-Flight Views

Compatibility Notes and Support

This add-on has been tested with Microsoft Flight Simulator – A Century of Flight. The developers originally did not aim for Microsoft Flight Simulator X compatibility, so please be aware of potential differences in FSX performance and functionality.

Origins and Background of Project Airbus

The A320 family was a ground-breaking project for Airbus, implementing fly-by-wire controls and modern aerodynamics. Project Airbus itself began during an era when flight simulation design was quickly transitioning toward higher fidelity. Early on, Thomas Ruth and Trevor Slack joined forces, naming their collaboration “Project Airbus.” Their initial A300 model demonstrated forward-thinking features, and subsequent releases included the original A320 version that garnered high praise. Although the team encountered obstacles and went on hiatus around late 2003, renewed enthusiasm led to a fresh A320 project that culminated in this refined, fully-featured freeware model.

Realistic Aircraft Systems

The A320 family stands out for advanced flight deck automation, and Project Airbus matches that identity by simulating details like:

• Pressurization outflow valve (manages cabin pressure by venting air on the ground, below 30 knots)
• Ground spoilers (deployed on touchdown to reduce lift on the wings)
• Pack outlets (alter opening based on temperature variations)
• Idle reversers (remain partially open briefly after reverse thrust is deactivated)
• Parallel bogies (represented on specific double-bogey layouts)
• Dynamic jetwash (visible when engines are running)
• Dropped control surfaces (elevators and ailerons droop once engines are shut down)

Additional Mechanical and Visual Enhancements

Beyond core systems, modelers have worked on:

• Functional passenger and cargo doors with custom animations
• Special lighting effects, including dual strobes, custom beacons, and landing flare effects
• Dynamic reflectivity (metallic shine that shifts under different lighting)
• Wing views for immersion in passenger cabin perspectives
• Accurate deployment/retraction of landing gear

Airframe Access and Door Controls

L1 Door

Activate the standard exit (Shift + E)

L2 and Cargo

Use the tail hook function (not assigned by default)

R1 and R2 Doors

Employ the wing fold command (also unassigned by default)

Installation Steps

To install the aircraft in FSX, place the “Project Airbus A320-214” folder into the Airplanes directory, typically found at:

OS (C)/Program Files(x86)/Microsoft Games/Microsoft Flight Simulator X/SimObjects/Airplanes

Unzip your downloaded files beforehand, then copy and paste the folder as instructed.

A Detailed Look at the Team

The Project Airbus endeavor was driven by a group of enthusiasts and professionals who specialized in modeling, painting, coding, and testing. Everyone contributed their expertise to produce a feature-rich, freeware A320. Key contributors include:

• Andy Warden (external modeling)
• Thomas Ruth (virtual cockpit design, XML coding)
• Peter Binamira (flight dynamics, sounds)
• Demetris Themistocleous (base textures, various liveries)
• Alessandro Savarese (base textures)
• John Tavendale (liveries)
• Derek Mayer (liveries)
• Matthew Murray (organization, corporate design)
• And several other testers and painters who contributed invaluable feedback

Special gratitude is extended to guest painters and flight dynamics testers—such as Capt. Manny Osias, F/O Spike Acenas, and others—who ensured the aircraft handled true to life. The A320’s recognized flight performance owes much to their efforts.

This particular livery has been credited to Derek Mayer, while Paul Craig prepared the repaint for EasyJet’s 200th-aircraft scheme.