PR-AJB: The Story of an Azul Airbus A320 With a Global Journey

Every airplane has a story, and some travel farther than others before their flying days are over. PR-AJB was one of those well-traveled aircraft. This Airbus A320 started its life flying British families on long-awaited holidays, then later crossed the Atlantic to join the growing fleet of Azul Linhas Aéreas Brasileiras. Over nearly nineteen years it picked up new registrations, new paint, new routes and a new home, carrying thousands of passengers along the way.

Its journey reflects how widely the A320 family has spread around the world and how easily these aircraft adapt to whatever their next chapter requires. PR-AJB also arrived at Azul during an important period of expansion as the airline worked to connect more cities across Brazil. In this blog we will explore where the aircraft came from, what it did during its short time with Azul, and how it eventually came to rest in Florida. We will also share how MotoArt recovered material from the retired airframe and created Azul A320 PlaneTags so its story can continue in a new way.

The Airbus A320: A New Direction in Modern Aviation

When the Airbus A320 first appeared in the late 1980s, it marked a major shift in how commercial airplanes were built and flown. Airbus introduced fly by wire controls on a large passenger aircraft for the first time, which replaced traditional mechanical linkages with electronic signals. Pilots used a side stick controller instead of a conventional yoke, and the aircraft itself was designed to help maintain stability and prevent unsafe maneuvers. These ideas were new at the time but eventually became the standard for most modern airliners.

The A320 family quickly grew into one of the most successful aircraft lines in the world. Airlines adopted it for short and medium range routes, and passengers appreciated its comfortable cabin and quiet ride. Over the years the A320 has been built in several versions, from the original models like PR-AJB to the newer A320neo series. Together they form the backbone of many fleets around the world. See the photo below to compare the A320ceo and A320neo side by side. 

By Yuezhi Huang - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

PR-AJB belonged to the early generation often called the A320ceo. These aircraft proved to be dependable, efficient and easy for airlines to operate. That reliability is what allowed MSN 1320 to move smoothly from one airline to another and continue flying for nearly two decades. By the time it joined Azul, the A320 had already built a reputation as one of the most important commercial aircraft of its era.

Airbus A320-214 At A Glance

Airbus A320-214 Specifications:

• Manufacturer: Airbus

• Type: A320-214

• Tail #: PR-AJB

• Crew: 6 (2 Pilots, 4 Flight Attendants)

• Passengers: 174 Single-Class Economy

• Wing Span: 117 ft 5 in

• Length: 123 ft 3 in

• Height: 38 ft 7 in

Airbus A320-214 Performance:

• Range: 3,860 mi

• Cruise Speed: Mach 0.78

• Ceiling: 39,800 ft

• Empty Weight: 82,000 lb

• Max Takeoff Weight: 172,000 lb

• Rate of Climb: 2,500 ft/min

• Engine: 2x CFM International CFM56-5B4/P Turbofans

Birth of MSN 1320 and Its Early Years in Europe

The aircraft that would later become PR-AJB rolled out of the Airbus assembly line in 2000 as manufacturer serial number 1320. It completed its first flight in September of that year and was delivered soon after to Air 2000, a British charter airline that specialized in vacation routes. Under its first registration, G-OOAR, the aircraft spent its early career carrying travelers from the United Kingdom to holiday destinations across Europe and beyond.

G-OOAR flickr photo by MikeAlphaTango shared under a Creative Commons (BY-NC-ND 2.0) license

Air 2000 eventually became part of First Choice Airways, and MSN 1320 moved along with the merger. It continued flying the same style of routes, which often meant high frequency seasonal travel and a steady schedule of leisure flights. These early years gave the aircraft the kind of consistent, everyday work that builds up long service histories.

In 2012 the aircraft changed hands again, this time joining Monarch Airlines as G-OZBY. Monarch was one of the oldest independent airlines in the United Kingdom and relied heavily on Airbus narrow body aircraft for its operations. With Monarch, MSN 1320 continued its role as a dependable short and medium haul aircraft, flying routes throughout Europe and the Mediterranean.

G-OZBY flickr photo by Alec BHX/KKC shared under a Creative Commons (BY-SA 2.0) license

By the time it left Europe, the aircraft had already lived a full career in the charter and leisure travel market. Its next chapter would take it much farther from where it started.

Azul Linhas Aéreas Brasileiras and a New Chapter for MSN 1320

Azul Linhas Aéreas Brasileiras began flying in 2008 with the goal of improving connectivity across Brazil. The airline built a fast-growing network that reached smaller and underserved cities, making air travel accessible in places where it had rarely been an option before. By the late 2010s, Azul had expanded into one of the country’s largest carriers, with more than 160 destinations and a fleet that balanced regional jets with larger mainline aircraft.

Photo courtesy of Azul

As Azul’s network grew, the airline began incorporating Airbus A320 family aircraft to meet rising demand on its busiest routes. These aircraft offered more seats and longer range than Azul’s early Embraer fleet, making them an important bridge as the airline prepared for a shift to the new A320neo generation.

Photo courtesy of Azul

MSN 1320 entered this transitional period when it joined the fleet in May 2018 as PR AJB. It was one of several A320ceo aircraft added to support Azul while the airline expanded, modernized and tested new Airbus operations across its domestic network. PR AJB flew a variety of commercial services in Azul’s bright blue colors and contributed to the airline’s rapid growth during this time.

Although PR AJB’s time with Azul was brief, it represents a moment of change for the airline. The aircraft helped meet immediate capacity needs while Azul positioned itself for the next phase of its fleet strategy. PR AJB’s move from European charter service to Brazilian domestic operations also highlights how individual aircraft often serve multiple roles during their lifetime, each one adding a different chapter to their story.

The aircraft was retired later in 2018 and stored in Brooksville, Florida, marking the end of its flying years. Even with a short stay, PR AJB played its part in Azul’s continued rise and the evolution of its Airbus fleet.

A Closer Look at Azul Linhas Aéreas Brasileiras

Azul entered the Brazilian aviation landscape in 2008 and quickly stood out as an airline with a different approach. Founded by David Neeleman, Azul focused on bringing reliable air travel to regions that had long been underconnected. Brazil’s size and geography make aviation essential, and Azul’s early strategy centered on reaching communities often overlooked by larger carriers.

From the start, Azul became known for its customer-first philosophy. The airline invested in comfort, strong branding and a friendly onboard experience that resonated with travelers. Its identity drew inspiration from Brazilian culture, with bright colors and a mosaic map of Brazil featured prominently across its fleet. This helped Azul build a recognizable and trusted presence across the country.

By Mariordo (Mario Roberto Durán Ortiz) - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

To support its growing network, Azul assembled one of the most diverse fleets in the region, operating Embraer jets, ATR turboprops and later Airbus A320 family aircraft. This flexibility allowed the airline to serve everything from short regional hops to high-demand routes between major cities. As demand increased, Azul expanded quickly, opening new hubs and developing a domestic network that became one of the largest in the world.

By Rafael Luiz Canossa - IMG_6123[1]_Fotor, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link

By the time PR AJB joined the fleet, Azul was entering a period of rapid expansion. The airline was strengthening its busiest routes, preparing for long-term fleet modernization and beginning to integrate newer Airbus models into its operations. Azul’s steady rise has since become one of Brazil’s most notable aviation success stories. It connected millions of passengers across the country, expanded internationally and earned recognition for its service and innovation.

Viewed in this larger context, PR AJB represents a small but meaningful point within Azul’s broader story. It arrived during a moment of growth, supported the network during an important transition and reflected the momentum of an airline that continues to shape modern Brazilian aviation.

Retirement and Storage in Florida

After almost nineteen years of service in Europe and Brazil, PR-AJB reached the end of its flying career in 2018. Once retired from Azul, the aircraft was ferried to Brooksville Tampa Bay Regional Airport in Florida. Brooksville has become a common location for aircraft storage and teardown work because of its dry climate, long runways and available space. Many commercial jets end their final years there, either waiting for a new operator or being parted out for future use.

For PR-AJB, Brooksville marked the final stop. The aircraft was removed from active records in early 2019, and its major components were gradually taken off the airframe. This stage is an important part of the aviation cycle. Engines and high value parts are inspected, repaired and put back into service on other aircraft, while the remaining structure is evaluated for recycling or preservation.

Although PR-AJB did not fly again after arriving in Florida, its time at Brooksville opened the door for its story to continue in a different way. Portions of the fuselage were set aside rather than scrapped, which made it possible for MotoArt to recover sections of the aircraft and transform them into PlaneTags. These pieces represent the last chapter of a long working life that stretched across two continents and several airlines.

How MotoArt Discovered PR-AJB and Brought the Project to Life

The story of how PR-AJB became a PlaneTag does not start with an airline executive or a business meeting. It starts with a young collector named Nicholas.

Watch CEO/Founder Dave Hall and MotoArt PlaneTags Historian Rob Schneider talk about  it in this podcast excerpt. Don't forget to like & subscribe so you don't miss our upcoming episodes.

A few years ago at the Sun n Fun Air Show, Dave Hall met a 12 year old boy who was already an enthusiastic PlaneTags collector. Nicholas visited the MotoArt booth with his dad and mentioned that he lived near Tampa Regional Airport, where an old Azul Airlines A320 had been sitting. He told Dave that it would make a great PlaneTag and even offered to send photos. Dave encouraged him to email when they got home, not knowing if anything would come of it.

Nicholas kept his word. His email arrived soon after, complete with pictures of the stored A320 and a heartfelt explanation of why he hoped it could be preserved. Because MotoArt is careful about permission and branding on every commercial aircraft project, Dave forwarded the email to a contact he found with Azul in Miami. The message was simple. Here is a young fan who cares deeply about your aircraft and wants to see it live on. Let me introduce PlaneTags and show what we do.

The Azul representative was surprised that a child had taken the time to document the aircraft and ask for it to be preserved. He forwarded the entire email chain to the airline’s CEO. That single moment started the conversation.

Like every commercial airline partnership, the process was long and involved. MotoArt works hard to secure official agreements, honor each airline’s brand and give back through charitable programs. These relationships take time. They often begin with excitement, slow down during contract reviews and pick up again when samples are created and shared with the airline’s leadership.

The Azul project followed that familiar path. At times it seemed like it might not move forward at all. Then a sample tag would spark new interest, or a meeting would breathe life back into the project. After more than a year of work the agreement was finally signed, opening the door for MotoArt and Azul to work together for the first time.

Because of that persistence, and because of one young collector who cared enough to ask, PR-AJB is now part of the PlaneTags collection. The partnership also marks MotoArt’s growing presence in the Southern Hemisphere, joining other airline collaborations and creating opportunities for future projects in Brazil and beyond. 

The PR-AJB PlaneTags and the Azul Livery

Once MotoArt secured the material from PR-AJB, the team began the careful process of turning the aircraft’s fuselage skin into PlaneTags. The A320’s structure provided several layers of painted aluminum, much of it still wearing Azul’s signature colors. As each section was examined and cut, the goal was to keep as much original character as possible, from surface texture to small markings that reflect the aircraft’s working life.

Azul’s branding helped make this release visually memorable. The airline is known for one of the brightest and most recognizable liveries in South America. Its deep blue paint, paired with green and yellow accents inspired by the Brazilian flag, creates a look that stands out on any ramp. PR-AJB carried this design during its time with Azul, and portions of that color scheme appear on many of the tags made from its skin.

The PR-AJB PlaneTags were cut in limited quantities, based on the amount of usable fuselage material available. Variations include solid Azul blue pieces, white sections from the upper fuselage and the occasional mixed color where two layers meet. Each tag is shaped, polished by hand and finished with engraving that identifies the aircraft and its history.

Collectors often appreciate tags that show a mix of color and wear because they represent the aircraft exactly as it appeared in service. The PR-AJB tags do that well. They capture the last chapter of an A320 that lived a long career in Europe and Brazil, with the Azul blue making it easy to recognize where its final flights took place.

Airbus PlaneTags

PR-AJB joins a long line of Airbus aircraft that MotoArt has preserved over the years. Each one represents a different moment in the company’s history and a different chapter in Airbus design. Together they form a collection that shows how wide the Airbus family has grown and how many roles these aircraft have played around the world. Check out the Airbus PlaneTags Collection.

• Airbus A330 – Aerolíneas Argentinas LV-FNI - A long-range A330-200 that served Aerolíneas Argentinas on international routes. Known for connecting South America with North America and Europe.

• Airbus A310 – Air Transat C-GSAT - An A310-300 that flew its final revenue flight before being preserved as PlaneTags. A key widebody in Air Transat’s long-haul leisure operations.

• Airbus A321-200 – Vietnam Airlines VN-A347 - A workhorse of Vietnam Airlines’ regional network. 

• Airbus A340-300 – China Airlines B-18801 - A four-engine long-haul aircraft that connected Taiwan with major global gateways. Part of the era when the A340 dominated ultra-long-distance travel.

• Airbus A340-642 – Virgin Atlantic “Varga Girl” G-VGAS - One of Virgin Atlantic’s iconic A340-600s, flown on high-profile international routes. Known for its distinctive nose art and long-range capabilities.

• Airbus A380 – Qantas VH-OQE - A double-deck superjumbo that served flagship Qantas routes for years. Retired for spare parts but preserved through PlaneTags from its massive airframe.

• Airbus A340-600 – Virgin Atlantic G-VEIL “Queen of the Skies” - A beloved long-haul aircraft in Virgin’s fleet, recognized for its sleek lines and range. Served premium transatlantic and global destinations.

• Airbus A319 – Alaska Airlines N522VA - Originally delivered to Virgin America before joining Alaska’s fleet. A colorful example of the West Coast carrier’s A319 operations.

• Airbus A320 – Delta N309US - A veteran A320 that served Northwest Airlines and later Delta Air Lines. Represents a major chapter of Delta’s Airbus narrowbody fleet.

• Airbus A320 – Air Canada C-FTJO - A widely traveled A320 that operated routes across North America. A strong example of Air Canada’s early adoption of the A320 family.

• Airbus A330 – American Airlines / US Airways N275AY - A long-range A330-300 that flew transatlantic routes for US Airways and American. Known for its dependable service between the US and Europe.

With PR-AJB joining this group, collectors can see how the A320 fits into the larger Airbus story. Each model offers a different perspective on the company’s evolution and the many ways these aircraft have connected people around the world.

Azul A320 PlaneTags

PR-AJB was one of thousands of Airbus A320s built, yet its story stands out because of the path it traveled. It began its life flying vacation routes for British charter carriers, spent years moving passengers across Europe, and finished its career in the colors of one of Brazil’s most dynamic airlines. Along the way it changed registrations, operators and continents, but it remained a dependable part of every fleet it joined.

Its brief time with Azul came during an important stage of the airline’s growth, when new aircraft types were being introduced and the network was expanding across Brazil. Even though PR-AJB flew for Azul for only a short period, it still became part of the airline’s larger story.

After retirement in Florida, the aircraft might have been forgotten if not for the efforts of a young collector who cared enough to ask whether it could be preserved. Because of that moment, and because of the work that followed, parts of the aircraft have been saved and turned into PlaneTags that allow its history to live on.

PR-AJB now joins a wider collection of Airbus aircraft preserved by MotoArt, each one representing a different chapter in commercial aviation. For collectors, these tags are a way to hold on to a piece of that history and remember the many places these aircraft have been.