Airbus silences the A320's 'barking dog'

Airbus has modified its A320neo to eliminate the characteristic ‘barking dog’ noise generated by the A320’s power transfer system during ground manoeuvring.

The noise has been a familiar feature of the A320 family and originates in the power-transfer unit, a bi-directional device enabling the green and yellow hydraulic systems to pressurise one another.

It typically activates when the differential pressure between the two systems exceeds 500psi.

This activation is usually heard in the cabin as a distinctive repetitive sound from beneath the cabin floor, reminiscent of a high-speed drill, a buzz-saw or even a dog’s barking.

The noise is generated by vibrations within the pumps and the modification involves installing two additional dampers – one near the engines and the other near the wing root.

Airbus says the amendment means the issue has been “solved”.

But it stresses that, while the noise is a well-known aspect of the A320, it has never been a source of concern to customers.