Descent rates in a jet

[JetBlast2000]

Does anyone know the descent rates recommend in the AIM. And if you could post where in the AIM that would be great too. Can’t seem to find it. Specifically for jet a/c if a distinction is made.

Also, I believe the FAR min is 500 fpm.[font=&quot] But Im not sure if that applies to all a/c under IFR...

Thanks,

JB2k
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[flyer172r]

Not sure if it's in the AIM or the FARs, but the "rule" is best descent rate until you're within 1000 ft. of your target altitude, and then between 500 to 1500 fpm to your target.

I believe the minimum 500 fpm rule has more to do with the fact that controllers base their planning on pilots doing at least a 500 fpm descent.

 

[JetBlast2000]

Not sure if it's in the AIM or the FARs, but the "rule" is best descent rate until you're within 1000 ft. of your target altitude, and then between 500 to 1500 fpm to your target.

Is the rule ‘best’ rate? Usually if asked I’ll give them best rate. A normal rate for us is about 1500fpm. But if I’m given a ‘pilots discretion,’ I might do 500 (or even less depending on the situation).

Got in a discussion with one of the guys and he was saying that 1500fpm is AIM recommendation for a normal descent rate…

I’m more interested in a ‘normal’ rate for jet a/c given in AIM. If there is one.

Thanks.

 

[JetBlast2000]

Thanks, found it.

4-4-9
d. When ATC has not used the term "AT PILOT'S DISCRETION" nor imposed any climb or descent restrictions, pilots should initiate climb or descent promptly on acknowledgement of the clearance. Descend or climb at an optimum rate consistent with the operating characteristics of the aircraft to 1,000 feet above or below the assigned altitude, and then attempt to descend or climb at a rate of between 500 and 1,500 fpm until the assigned altitude is reached. If at anytime the pilot is unable to climb or descend at a rate of at least 500 feet a minute, advise ATC. If it is necessary to level off at an intermediate altitude during climb or descent, advise ATC, except when leveling off at 10,000 feet MSL on descent, or 2,500 feet above airport elevation (prior to entering a Class C or Class D surface area), when required for speed reduction.

 

[FracCapt]

d. When ATC has not used the term "AT PILOT'S DISCRETION" nor imposed any climb or descent restrictions, pilots should initiate climb or descent promptly on acknowledgement of the clearance. Descend or climb at an optimum rate consistent with the operating characteristics of the aircraft to 1,000 feet above or below the assigned altitude, and then attempt to descend or climb at a rate of between 500 and 1,500 fpm until the assigned altitude is reached. If at anytime the pilot is unable to climb or descend at a rate of at least 500 feet a minute, advise ATC. If it is necessary to level off at an intermediate altitude during climb or descent, advise ATC, except when leveling off at 10,000 feet MSL on descent, or 2,500 feet above airport elevation (prior to entering a Class C or Class D surface area), when required for speed reduction.

In RVSM airspace the limitation is NO MORE THAN 1,000fpm climb/descent rate for the last 1,000'. This is to prevent TCAS alerts and RAs.

 

[SSDD]

Frac,

That RVSM limitation is only when there are other aircraft in your vecinity. I don't have it in front of me, but if I remember correctly, within 6 miles and 1000' of your intended altitude.

Take care

 

[Mmmmmm Burritos]

Just do whatever you want, at least 500fpm up or down. If ATC wants you to go faster, they'll tell you. I usually do 500-1000fpm until I'm on a 3 degree descent glideslope to a crossing fix or whatever. Then it's usually somewhere around 2000-2500fpm at jet speeds.

VNAV rules!

 

[Flechas]

Just do whatever you want, at least 500fpm up or down. If ATC wants you to go faster, they'll tell you. I usually do 500-1000fpm until I'm on a 3 degree descent glideslope to a crossing fix or whatever. Then it's usually somewhere around 2000-2500fpm at jet speeds.

VNAV rules!

Ditto! I do the same, if they ask me to start down before the 3 degree path, I give them 500 fpm, then whatever gives me 3 degrees (GS/2 x 10)+5 or 10 NM to slow down to 250 depending on winds

 

[Mmmmmm Burritos]

Ditto! I do the same, if they ask me to start down before the 3 degree path, I give them 500 fpm, then whatever gives me 3 degrees (GS/2 x 10)+5 or 10 NM to slow down to 250 depending on winds

Math!! HAHA! I don't get paid enough for that.

 

[Flechas]

Math!! HAHA! I don't get paid enough for that.

Who said I do it because they pay me?
For me it's like a challenge everytime I have to make a crossing restriction, I enjoy doing it, specially with strong tailwinds.