What is the primary function of the ADIRUs on the A320?

The primary function of the ADIRUs, or Air Data Inertial Reference Units, on the A320 is to provide crucial air data and inertial reference data. These units collect and process information such as airspeed, altitude, vertical speed, and specific inertial data regarding the aircraft's position and movement. This information is essential for the aircraft's flight management systems and avionics, enabling pilots to maintain accurate control and navigation of the aircraft during all phases of flight.

Inertial reference data allows the aircraft to calculate its position based on motion rather than external sources, which is vital for navigation, especially in environments where GPS signals might be intermittent or unavailable. Overall, the ADIRUs significantly enhance the safety and efficiency of the aircraft's operations by ensuring that vital flight data is accurate and readily available to the pilot and systems onboard.