FSLabs recently released their rendition of the Airbus A321neo, the largest and most capable member of the A320 family, for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and 2024. 

Airbus introduced the A321neo in 2010 as the next generation of their very popular A321. It features newer—and more efficient—engines, aerodynamic enhancements, and higher passenger capacity, making it a solid choice for airlines wishing to transport passengers efficiently on high-density routes.

FSLabs’ rendition attempts to capture the full range of technological and operational advancements that define the new generation of Airbus narrow-body aircraft. Engine behavior, extended range capabilities, and fuel management logic were all modeled to reflect the real counterpart as closely as possible. 

The rollout will be done in two phases, with the first (current) focusing on the A321-251N and A321-251NX equipped with CFM LEAP-1A32 engines, the A321-252N and A321-252NX featuring the LEAP-1A30 variant, and the A321-253N and A321-253NX with the LEAP-1A33. The second phase will follow shortly and include the A321-271N and NX, powered by Pratt & Whitney 1133G-JM engines, and the A321-272N and NX, powered by the 1130G-JM engine.

They split the development phase to streamline development, testing, and delivery. The second phase will be provided at no extra cost.

The complete feature set includes all the aforementioned variants with their respective performance profiles, startup behavior, thrust response, and fuel efficiency. It also accurately depicts the standard and ACF cabins with their peculiarities. The DRAIMS (Digital Radio and Audio Integrating Management System) is also included, featuring seamless integration with VHF radios, audio selectors, intercom functionality, and PA systems. The full feature list follows below:

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A321 NEO LR Support with Additional Centre Tanks (ACTs):

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• Simulates the A321 NEO LR with up to three ACTs, allowing for extended-range operations. Full fuel logic includes accurate ACT usage sequencing, center tank prioritisation, and realistic refueling and transfer behavior.

DRAIMS – Digital Radio and Audio Integrating Management System:

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• Fully modeled DRAIMS (Digital Radio and Audio Integrating Management System), managing the aircraft’s audio and radio communication environment. This includes seamless interaction with VHF radios, audio selectors, intercom functionality, and PA systems – faithfully reproducing the modern Airbus audio suite and allowing pilots to configure and manage communications as they would in the real aircraft.

High-Fidelity Flight Performance Model:

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• Features a newly developed aerodynamic and engine model tuned to operate within tight margins of real-world performance data, including accurate takeoff/landing performance, climb profiles, and cruise fuel flow.

Custom Engine Sound set:

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• Authentic, newly developed sounds for the LEAP-1A engine family, including interior and exterior environments, startup/shutdown, windmilling, and APU/bleed interaction, with accurate audio transitions and spatial placement.

Advanced ELAC L103 (Elevator Aileron Computer):

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• Simulation includes the updated ELAC L103, with support for the Electronic Tail Bumper (ETB) protection system, ensuring tailstrike avoidance during rotation. The A321 Neo’s unique Flare Mode has been fully implemented, along with Soft Go-Around (SGA) logic for smoother approach transitions under TOGA conditions.
• FWC F10 Integration:

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• Integration of the Flight Warning Computer (FWC) F10, incorporating hundreds of new ECAM warnings and messages specific to the A321 Neo.

Updated FADEC with engine cooling:

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• Features full modeling of the LEAP-specific FADEC version L1A0550, including automatic engine cooling logic during start, accurate N1/N2 management, and realistic response to throttle input across all power settings.

Realistic ground handling:

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• Ground handling has been carefully tuned to reflect the real-world taxiing characteristics of the A321 Neo. This includes accurate nosewheel steering authority, taxi power response, weight- and load-dependent rolling resistance, and realistic handling under low-speed turns and crosswind conditions – providing a smooth yet responsive ground feel.

ROPS / ROW Integration (Runway Overrun Protection / Warning):

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• Includes Airbus’s Runway Overrun Protection System, with predictive monitoring and in-cockpit alerts during approach and landing to support safer runway operations.

GSX Pro Full Integration:

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• Seamless integration with GSX Pro, featuring automated ground services – boarding, catering, de-icing (including remote pad ops), refueling, and fully autonomous pushback – all triggered according to real-world airline operational flows.

Fully Integrated ATSU/AOC Functionality:

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• The aircraft’s ATSU/AOC system is deeply tied into the ground operations ecosystem, allowing interaction with service logic and company data flows directly from the MCDU interface.

A321ceo owners are eligible for a discount coupon, which needs to be redeemed here. The offer is only valid until September 15, 2025. 

The add-on is available in their store for $69.95.

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