The only drivers to knock Airbus are the dinosaur pilots who haven't flown them yet. I've flown B727-200, B747-400 and now A319. Wonderful a/c to fly whether it be a CAT111B autoland or a manual thrust, autopilot out visual approach onto a runway with no instrument or visual aids. Tip: Try to learn as much of the Airbus talk as possible (MCDU, ELAC, SEC ect.)There are lot's of these. Side stick is the best thing since sliced bread. Boeing should drop the ego and get rid of the yoke. Having flown the best handling airliner ever designed (B727) I believe I'm qualified to say this. The Americans invented it anyway (F16). The ECAM is great but can lead you down the garden path in one or two emergencies, so know your QRH. It takes a bit longer to get comfortable with an Airbus than a Boeing but I guarentee you'll love it.