Which Airbus model was the first to be fully designed using Computer-Aided Design (CAD)?

The Airbus A320 was the first commercial aircraft to be fully designed using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) technology. This marked a significant advancement in aerospace engineering and design processes, allowing for greater precision and efficiency in the development of the aircraft. The use of CAD enabled designers to create detailed 3D models and simulations, streamlining the engineering workflow and enhancing collaboration among various teams involved in the aircraft’s design.

The A320 program, initiated in the late 1970s and entering service in the early 1980s, represented a pivotal moment in the aviation industry, showcasing Airbus’s commitment to innovation and modern technology. This move towards CAD not only improved the design speed and accuracy but also set a new standard for future aircraft development across the industry.

The other models mentioned—A330, A350, and A310—benefited from advancements in technology and design techniques that followed the A320, but it was the A320 that led the way as the first fully CAD-designed aircraft.