FMS

Question 1

Know the primary uses of the FMS (Flight Management System) and it’s
interface with the MCDU’s (Multifunction Control Display Unit):

Answer 1

Function (FMF) 1 and 2 (provided by the VIAs) and two MCDUs
(Multifunction Control Display Unit) installed on the left and right sides
of the forward pedestal
 The pilot uses the Flight Control Panel (FCP) to select flight modes and
the MCDU (Multifunction Control Display Unit) to enter flight plans and
other flight data. Flight progress is monitored through the MCDU and
the EIS (Electronic Instrument System).

Question 2

Know the cautions associated with the FMS (Flight Management System):

Answer 2

All data entered into the FMS is advisory only and must be confirmed to
be accurate and current by comparison to published and approved
flight plan navigation charts and approach plates.
 The flight crew is responsible for assuring accuracy of the strung FMS
flight plan. All entries and edits to the FMS flight plan must be confirmed to be in compliance with ATC clearances, both laterally and
vertically.

Question 3

Know the primary and secondary modes of the FMS (Flight Management
System):

Answer 3

The FMS can operate in DUAL, INDEPENDENT, and STANDBY
modes. DUAL mode is the normal operating mode of the FMS. When
operating in DUAL mode, there is cross talk between the VIA’s
(Versatile Integrated Avionics) to ensure the following:
 MCDU entries made on one side are entered simultaneously into the
other VIA. The respective MCDU can display different pages, however,
if the same page is displayed on each MCDU, the displays are similar,
but the predicted values may be slightly different. (The FMS is a
function of the VIA’s)
 During normal operation, advisory messages may be displayed on one,
or both, MCDU’s. Both MCDU’s should be monitored during flight.

Question 4

Understand the relationship between the alignment of the IRS (Inertial
Reference System) and the FMS (Flight Management System):

Answer 4

Prior to commencing alignment procedure the airplane must be parked
and not moved until procedure is complete and NAV OFF lights
extinguish.
 IRS mode selectors ……………NAV
 Alignment time is approximately 10 minutes.
 NAV OFF lights will flash if ADIRU (Air Data Inertial Reference Unit)
does not receive present position initialization within 10 minutes of
positioning mode selectors to NAV.