Yes...
"SA" means single aisle
Yes, in direct law...heaven forbid you should ever experience this in real life (joking...)...the airplane flies like a conventional aircraft. There is nothing to worry about, no need to declare an emergency...in direct law, the Bus becomes a 737.
Correct...Alternate Law goes to Direct Law with gear extension...except in the case of "Abnormal Law"....not really a consideration...just one of those questions in the Pub for a free beer.
Unfortunately, many carriers now mandate the use of Auto-Thrust. I guess I can understand why, as the Bus' Auto-Thrust system is magic.
But, I still like to hand fly the plane...still like to control my own thrust...If you want to disconnect the Auto-Thrust for approach and landing...and your company's SOP doesn't dictate otherwise...be sure to do it before 1000 feet RA. (Airbus recommendation)
Overall, the Bus is a good, solid aircraft (in my opinion). Been on it for almost six years, now, and I love it.
PantLoad