How to Identify the Airbus

Remember, nearly all Airbus airliners are wider than most small airliners. The Airbus A-300-B2, the first of the line, is 222 inches wide, allowing two-aisle, eight-abreast seating. Two standard LD-3 cargo containers can be stored side by side in the cargo bay.

Note that Airbus airliners seem to have a disproportionately large fuselage when compared to their wing size.

Check out the A-310 model, the second of the line. Note that it is shorter and has a reduced passenger capacity.

Remember, the A-320 is Airbus Industrie's second-generation aircraft. The A-320 is a 130- to 170-passenger, single-aisle airliner equipped with a computer fly-by-wire control system.

Remember, too, Airbus Industrie's largest models - the A-330 and A-340 - have returned to the twin-aisle, wide-body cross section of the early models.

Note the A-330 is a long-range, high-capacity, twin-engine model.

Note the A-340 mounts four engines on the same basic airframe and wing design for increased range and capacity.

Remember, both the A-330 and the A-340 incorporate the latest fly-by-wire technology.