An AAB slider has a leading edge generally impinging fluid flow due to movement of a medium relative to the slider. A cavity dam defines a continuous air bearing surface that extends over a region between the sides of the slider and between at least one sub-ambient cavity and the leading edge. Step level slots in the air bearing surface at the leading edge admit fluid into the region of the air bearing surface. Side rails on the slider extend rearward from the cavity dam to form the sub-ambient cavity. The air bearing surface is characterized by the absence of a channel adjacent the leading edge that extends between the sides of the slider. A center rail extends rearward from the cavity dam to the trailing edge and supports a transducer. The arrangement is such that airflow to the transducer is minimized, thus minimizing particulate matter from accumulating on the trailing edge slider features, including the transducer.