Descent
OBJECTIVE: To develop the pilot's skill and knowledge on conducting a descent and to level the aircraft off from a descent.
ELEMENTS
COMPLETION STANDARDS
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COMMON ERRORS
THINGS TO REMEMBER
STUDY
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"Cruise Descent" Procedures
This is for a normal descent from cruise altitude to pattern. This method is to be used as a general rule of thumb and the manufacturer of your aircraft may have a different procedure.
- From a level cruise flight position, reduce power and the aircraft will start to descend. Control rate of descent by adjusting power. The average target descent rate (per the AFH) is -400 to -500fpm
- To level off from the descent, use the same 10% of VSI rule of thumb as you would when leveling off from a climb. Add power and adjust trim as required.
Performance Descent (Archer II Only)
The Archer II Pilots Operating Handbook specifies that in order to obtain performance figures as printed in the POH, the pilot must descend using the following procedure.
- Power 2500RPM
- Airspeed pitch for 122 KIAS
- Use trim as required