What is That Noise?

Airbus, Operations, Technology

If you’ve flown on an Airbus narrowbody (A318/A319/A320/A321) or an A330, you’ve definitely heard the sound that makes you think something is horribly wrong, especially if you’re sitting near the wing. As you wait to take off, you look out the window expecting to see this:

a319ptu

But don’t worry, it’s not actually a ninja repeatedly kicking a seal in the head, nor is it a dog that got loose in the belly of the plane . . . it’s just the Power Transfer Unit (PTU).

First, here’s a little background. These aircraft each have two separate hydraulic systems. Those hydraulic systems power some pretty important things, like flight controls. Each of those systems is powered by an engine-driven pump. One is on the left side while the other is on the right.

When both pumps are working, there’s no need for the PTU, but when only one pump is working, the PTU enables a single pump to also power the hydraulics on the opposite side. It’s most common to hear this while taxiing, because you’ll often taxi with one engine to save fuel. When both engines are running, all sounds normal.

So next time you hear the noise, just remember it’s nothing bad. Now you can reassure your fellow passengers that all is well. (Cue “The More You Know” music.)

For more info, read this article.

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6 comments on “What is That Noise?

  1. Every site I visited was mentioned that this noise is while taxing.

    I heard this noise on taxing and when landing gears were pulled out on landing procedures. Last thing sounds stange, bec. everybody is saying it’s sounded when other engine is not fully functional.

  2. Thanks for explaining the noise, I am a nervous flyer and knowing the facts helps. To bad you don’t see ninjas practicing their moves outside plans when you fly ;)

  3. Thanks for this! I flew on one a few months back coming from South America and this sound really confused me! Thanks for the clarification!

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