Starting Descent
Chapter 8.2
Objectives
To know the procedure for the entering the descent
To know the various parameters of a descent
To know the criteria for choosing the descent parameters
LOOKOUT at the beginning of the descent
When passing from straight and level flight to descent, you must ensure by performing LOOKOUT that the airspace below and behind the airplane is clear for the new flightpath.
You can improve your view of the airspace beneath the airplane by performing small heading changes.
Choice of Descent Speed
Descent flights shall be executed at established speeds and shall correspond to operational requirements. For the use of light aircraft, different procedures and airspeeds are defined.
You will find in the AFM the descent speeds recommended by the manufacturer for descent flight, which are based on special criteria:
Example of calculation for a descent flight
For long-distance descent flights with a constant rate of descent and stabilized airspeed, the distance required for descent may be determined by a simple calculation.
Procedure Entry into DESCENT
DESCENT CHECK (for approach)
When the descent leads directly to an approach, then the APPROACH CHECK can be executed after the DESCENT CHECK. The early performance of these checks will alleviate the intense workload to come.
Various descent flights
Speed Controlled Descent
Various descent flights
Rate Controlled Descent
Various descent flights
Rate and Speed Controlled Descent
Questions
What is the logical sequence for manipulations when moving from a straight and level flight to a descent?
- Lookout
- Mixture set
- ATTITUDE
- POWER
- TRIM
What factors influence the choice of speed as well as the rate of descent?
- Loss of altitude and corresponding distance available
What should you watch out for during a descent flight in turbulent air?
- The airspeed