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TexFlyer · 02-25-2008, 05:36 PM

Here is my technique that I like to use. Perf-Init page I use 4 degrees to start. Then scan the release to see what winds I can expect. Like MKF7, I use the progress page 2 to see the planned descent rate. I will use what ever descent rate will yield 3000 fpm. Obviously with a headwind I can get away with maybe 4.5 or even 5 a few times. Just pay attention when the winds die down. As the purple carrot comes up on the PFD, I will select VS 1000 fpm. As the plane starts to pitch over, start slowly increasing VS to 2000 fpm. Leave 2000 fpm set until the purple carrot starts moving down, then slowly adjust VS to 3000 fpm. If you need more because the winds are slower then you have some room to correct. I also use a 6 nm point before any crossing restriction to be level at and if need be to slow to 250 kias. Don't be afraid to use spoilers if need be. I used them probably 3 times in the last year with this descent profile. Which probably means I need to be more aggressive

I then slowly start to select 500 fpm within 1500 ft of level off to make a smoother transition (I try to have 500 fpm selected by the time I have 500 ft to level off.) If ATC starts you down early descend at 1000 fpm until top of descent. Again it is just my technique, if it's your leg the only thing I truly care about is being early at a crossing restriction.

02-25-2008, 05:36 PM	#10 (permalink)
TexFlyer Join Date: Oct 2004 Posts: 35	Here is my technique that I like to use. Perf-Init page I use 4 degrees to start. Then scan the release to see what winds I can expect. Like MKF7, I use the progress page 2 to see the planned descent rate. I will use what ever descent rate will yield 3000 fpm. Obviously with a headwind I can get away with maybe 4.5 or even 5 a few times. Just pay attention when the winds die down. As the purple carrot comes up on the PFD, I will select VS 1000 fpm. As the plane starts to pitch over, start slowly increasing VS to 2000 fpm. Leave 2000 fpm set until the purple carrot starts moving down, then slowly adjust VS to 3000 fpm. If you need more because the winds are slower then you have some room to correct. I also use a 6 nm point before any crossing restriction to be level at and if need be to slow to 250 kias. Don't be afraid to use spoilers if need be. I used them probably 3 times in the last year with this descent profile. Which probably means I need to be more aggressive I then slowly start to select 500 fpm within 1500 ft of level off to make a smoother transition (I try to have 500 fpm selected by the time I have 500 ft to level off.) If ATC starts you down early descend at 1000 fpm until top of descent. Again it is just my technique, if it's your leg the only thing I truly care about is being early at a crossing restriction.