Archive for December, 2009

How to Calculate a Visual Descent Point

Visual descent points are handy tools the FAA has included on many GPS approaches to keep you from flying dangerously unstabilized approaches and to prevent pilots from hitting all sorts of obstacles. But there are a number of approaches that don’t have these magic little references. Read on to find out how to compute your own VDPs in one simple formula. Read more…

A Normal Rate of Descent Using Normal Maneuvers

All instrument rated pilots are familiar with the term “chop it and drop it.” If the runway environment comes into sight just as the missed approach point is reached, the pilot can cut the power, enter a slip and drop it like it’s hot – or so the theory goes. Although widely practiced and propagated by many a CFI, is it really safe? Furthermore, is it even legal? Read more…

Aviation Photo Friday: Surreal Sunsets

So Many Errors: The Runway Incursion of United 1448

Anybody who’s ever taxied an airplane in low visibility knows that situational awareness is critical. In most cases, radio communication is the only way air traffic control can positively identify an aircraft’s location. If the pilots don’t know where they are, then neither does air traffic control. This was a hard lesson learned by the crew of United 1448 in what could have been another Tenerife. Read more…