The $2.5 Billion Jet That Crashed at Its Own Airshow

In 1984, Airbus committed $2.5 billion to building an airliner whose flight controls would be operated not by cables and hydraulic rods but by computers — computers that could, in defined circumstances, refuse a pilot's instruction if that instruction would destroy the aircraft. It was the most radical design decision in the history of commercial aviation. The airline industry's safety establishment was sceptical. Pilots' unions were alarmed. Several aviation authorities weren't sure how to certify it. On the 22nd of February 1987, the A320 flew for the first time. It was, as advertised, the first commercial airliner whose computers had genuine authority to override the pilot in order to keep the aircraft within its certified structural and aerodynamic limits. The pilot could not stall it, could not pull it into a structural failure, could not roll it past 67 degrees of bank, regardless of what the sidestick commanded. Two months after the aircraft entered service, one crashed at an air show. #AirbusA320 #AviationHistory #FlyByWire #AirbusEngineering DISCLAIMER This video is for educational and entertainment purposes only. All facts, figures, and dates presented are based on publicly available historical sources and have been researched to the best of our ability. Some details may be simplified for narrative clarity. We do not claim this to be an exhaustive or definitive account of the events described. The views and interpretations expressed are those of the creator and do not represent any official position of the airlines, manufacturers, or institutions mentioned. Footage and images used are either licensed, in the public domain, or used under fair use for commentary and educational purposes. If you believe any content infringes on your rights, please contact us directly before filing a claim.