Descent Planning

Objectives

What are our objectives when planning a descent?

• arrive on time or early
• maximize range (for the unexpected)
• minimize costs
• avoid turbulence and weather
• avoid exposure to lower altitude traffic
• maintain passenger comfort
• setup for a stabilized approach

Descent Planning Methods without a STAR

Sources of Information

To be expanded upon at a later date:

Descent Planning Methods with a STAR

Best Range Descent

A best range descent (fuel conservation) is an idle descent at a slow speed close to or at VMD.

Best Rate Descent

Faster descent rates are achieved at faster speeds. An economical and rapid descent is achieved at idle and MMO/VMO, and an even higher descent rate is achieved with flight spoilers.

Cost Index

Should we save fuel or save time?

Steepest Gradient Descent

How is the steepest descent gradient achieved in a jet aircraft?

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