Approach Descent
Chapter 13.4
Objectives
To be able to determine in the approach where to start the descent (point of descent) that leads to the landing
To know the procedure for initializing the descent.
Beginning of the Descent for Landing
Depending on the type of aircraft, the type of approach and possible obstacles, the glide path may vary (between 3° and 5°). The point at which the descent begins shall comply with the conditions at the airport.
The beginning of the descent can start at the BASE LEG, for a short circuit, it can also start in the DOWNWIND, depending on the following:
- Distance from DOWNWIND to the runway
- Length of DOWNWIND, BASE, and FINAL
- Height of the DOWNWIND above the aerodrome, AAL
The Start of the Descent During a Direct Approach
Moving from level flight to descent for landing is the start of the approach, and you begin this descent with a change of attitude and an additional decrease in engine power.
The descent can be started when the level flight path and the descent flight path intersect.
Power Reduction and Flap Setting when Approaching Glide Path
Procedure when Setting Flaps for Descent:
Power Reduction and Flap Setting when Approaching Glide Path
The same procedure is applied to the «Aerodrome Traffic Circuit».
The Initial Descent
Deviations in approach speeds have to be corrected by engine power. The only exception is the initial descent.
Because at the early stage of the descent, the glidepath cannot be clearly identified, the approach speed is mainitained by attitude (1):
.
As soon as the glidepath can be clearly judged (usually by the middle of the base leg), the speed is
corrected by engine power and the glidepath by attitude changes (see chapter 13.6.1) (2).