Descent

OBJECTIVE: To develop the pilot's skill and knowledge on conducting a descent and to level the aircraft off  from a descent.
ELEMENTS

  • Procedures for performing the descent and descent checklist
  • Conducting a "cruise descent"
  •  Leveling off from a descent
  • Changing cruise altitudes en-route (descents)

COMPLETION STANDARDS
  • Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to the descent phase of flight. 
  • Begins to level off from a climb at approximately 10% of the rate of descent as indicated on the VSI
  • Uses trim appropriately to help relieve control pressures as required
  • Completes the appropriate checklist 
COMMON ERRORS
  • Improper descent procedures being utilized
  • Improper "lead in" to level off
  • Improper use of trim (trim should be used to relieve pressure and not "fly the plane"
  • Improper use of checklist 

THINGS TO REMEMBER
  • Most descents can be made from cruise by simply reducing power and using that to control rate of descent
  • In the Archer II you will need to set power to 2500RPM and then descend at 122 KIAS to attain the performance as listed in the AFM
  • If using idle power descents you should briefly increase power every 30 seconds to "clear the engine"
  • To level off from a descent you should use the same 10% of VSI rule as you would for climbs

STUDY
  • AFH (FAA-H-8083A) Chapter 3
  • Aircraft AFM

"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