At its most fundamental level, airlift suspension is an adjustable suspension system that relies on pressurized air (generated by a compressor) moving into four bladders known as "airbags" or "air springs," one for each wheel.

The system's main components include air-lines, airbags, a compressor, and a storage tank for compressed air. Some more components are needed to allow the system to function, especially in more advanced, electronically controlled systems: other components include an ECAS computer and height sensors to collect real-time data on the vehicle's height.