What does descend via mean?

According to NBAA, a descend via is “an abbreviated ATC clearance that requires compliance with a published procedure’s lateral path and associated speed restrictions and provides a pilot-discretion descent to comply with published altitude restrictions until descending to the ‘Bottom Altitude’ published on the STAR.”

What is descending in aviation?

In aeronautics, a descent is any time period during air travel where an aircraft decreases altitude, and is the opposite of an ascent or climb.

What does descend at pilot’s discretion mean?

The term “AT PILOT’S DISCRETION” included in the altitude information of an ATC clearance means that ATC has offered the pilot the option to start climb or descent when the pilot wishes, is authorized to conduct the climb or descent at any rate, and to temporarily level off at any intermediate altitude as desired.

Does ATC tell you when to descend?

According to the FAA, when ATC issues a clearance to descend at pilot’s discretion (PD), pilots may begin the descent whenever they choose, and at any rate of their choosing. Pilots are also authorized to level off, temporarily, at any intermediate altitude during the descent.

When can you descend on an approach?

“Maintain 3000 until established on the localizer.” Or, “Cross FIXXX at or above 3000.” Once you meet those conditions, you’re safely in TERPS-designed territory and can descend on the approach profile.

When can you descend on an arrival?

After crossing the 17 NM arc, descent is authorized to the lower charted altitudes. Pilots approaching from the northwest are expected to maintain a minimum altitude of 6,000 feet, and when within 22 NM of the IF/IAF, descend to a minimum altitude of 2,000 feet MSL until crossing the IF/IAF.

How do aircraft descend?

A: Decreasing the power and decreasing the pitch (lowering the nose) are usually the two things done to descend. If a quick descent is needed, the power is reduced to idle, the nose is lowered and flight spoilers (panels on the top of the wing) are extended.

When should a pilot start descent?

A: Normally an airliner will begin its descent around 100 to 120 miles from the destination (assuming the cruising altitude is above 30,000 feet). The point of initial descent varies depending on the cruise altitude, the amount of traffic going to your destination and weather conditions.

How do pilots know when to descend?

Question: How do pilots know when to descend to land on the assigned runway at the correct speed? Answer: Pilots plan the descent based on the wind and air traffic flow. Working in partnership with air traffic control, the descent is executed allowing adequate distance to descend and line up with the proper runway.

When should I start descent?

A good rule of thumb is to allow yourself two minutes for each 1,000 feet of altitude you need to lose. So, if you’re cruising at 10,000 feet above field elevation, start descending 20 minutes before your planned arrival.

When can a pilot deviate from an ATC clearance?

§ 91.123 Compliance with ATC clearances and instructions. (a) When an ATC clearance has been obtained, no pilot in command may deviate from that clearance unless an amended clearance is obtained, an emergency exists, or the deviation is in response to a traffic alert and collision avoidance system resolution advisory.

When can I descend below the MDA?

Also, remember that you cannot descend from MDA until you are in a position to descend to the runway using normal maneuvers and a normal descent rate.)