Descents (Idle/Cruise)

Question 1

What can be used to anticipate when is best to level off?

Answer 1

1. 10% of current RoC or RoD
2. By assessing the altimeter needle and how much time you have before reaching target altitude
3. 250-300ft

Question 2

What is the power and attitude for a Standard/IDLE descent?

Answer 2

PWR: 0% TQ (PCL Idle)
Attitude: Horizon in line with top of HUD brackets

Question 3

What is the power and attitude for a cruise descent?

Answer 3

PWR: 25% TQ
Attitude: Horizon 3/4 of the way up the HUD

Question 4

Before entering the descent, what are your considerations?

Answer 4

1. Checks complete (FIRARA)
2. What profile (IDLE/cruise)
3. Remain VMC/OCTA as required
4. Comply with ATC instructions
5. LSALTs

Question 5

If your speed is greater than 240KIAS, how do you enter the descent?

Answer 5

Select IDLE/25% as required, maintain level until approaching 240, set IDLE/Cruise attitude and trim

Question 6

If your speed is less than 240KIAS, how do you enter the descent?

Answer 6

Lower to IDLE/Cruise attitudes, approaching 240KIAS, PCL as required, trim

Question 7

The QFI has just handed over the aircraft for you to demonstrate an IDLE descent, what are your actions before entering the descent?

Answer 7

Aviate the aircraft
1. Confirm correct power (53% for S&L)
2. ALAP cycle
4. Trim for hands off
5. Lookout
6. Simultaneously set IDLE power and horizon middle of the

Question 8

The QFI has just handed over the aircraft for you to demonstrate a CRUISE descent, what are your actions before entering the descent?

Answer 8

Aviate the aircraft
1. Confirm correct power (53% for S&L)
2. ALAP cycle
4. Trim for hands off
5. Lookout
6. Simultaneously set 25% TQ and horizon 3/4 of the way up the HUD (black bits)

Question 9

What are your actions as you level out from the descent?

Answer 9

1. Anticipate

Simultaneously: (without looking at the PFD)
2. Set half/half attitude
3. Set PWR (53%)

4. Complete an ALAP cycle
5. Check PWR
6. Correct alt/HDG/IAS through ALAP