How many packs can the APU operate until 15,000 feet?

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The APU (Auxiliary Power Unit) on the A320 is designed to provide electrical power and bleed air for air conditioning and engine starting while the aircraft is on the ground or in flight. When it comes to operation at altitudes up to 15,000 feet, the APU can supply adequate bleed air to support only two packs.

Above 15,000 feet, the performance of the APU's bleed air system becomes limited due to the decrease in air density. This limitation restricts the number of air conditioning packs that can be operated simultaneously. At lower altitudes, there is sufficient pressure and airflow; however, as altitude increases, the available airflow decreases, making it infeasible for the APU to maintain the necessary pressure and temperature for more than two packs.

This operational characteristic is critical for pilots and crew members to understand, as it directly impacts the cabin climate control and passenger comfort during high-altitude operations.

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