Aircraft 9 (Aircraft performance)

Question 1

What is the most efficient way to fly a plane?

Answer 1

Continuous climb to cruise level until reaching top of decent point. Direct routing to destination.

Question 2

List 3 reasons aircraft have to fly specified routes and levels?

Answer 2

• To avoid noise restrictions
• To avoid restricted airspace
• The achieve a safe and orderly flow of air traffic

Question 3

What are the 3 factors affecting climb rate?

Answer 3

• Weight of the a/c
• Air density
• FMS mode that’s selected e.g. expedite / economical

Question 4

How would the crew expedite a climb?

Answer 4

Increase the power and / or raise the nose to increase RoC.

Question 5

What are 3 effects on the a/c of being at high altitude?

Answer 5

• Stability will reduce
• Turn rate decreases therefore the turning circle will be bigger
• The ability to increase / decrease the speed is reduced

Question 6

What is the top of descent point?

Answer 6

The point at which an a/c must begin its descent to get a constant 3 degree angle.