Improving your flight precision can be easily achieved by utilizing some simple formulas that can be performed mentally or on a calculator. Here are 7 useful formulas to help make your flight more precise:
You can find out more free aviation resources from Wayman Aviation Academy. They are a flight school in Floridathat provides the best aviation courses for both domestic and international students. Visit them for more such info that you will find helpful in your career journey as a pilot.
AManeuvering Speed (Va) Calculation:
Va is the speed at which full deflection of any flight control surface may cause damage to the aircraft structure. The Pilot Operating Handbook (POH) of most small aircraft provides the recommended maneuvering speed when at maximum gross weight. To determine Va based on current gross weight, use the formula: Square root of (Current Takeoff Weight / Max Gross Takeoff Weight) x Published Va.
AVisual Descent Point (VDP) Calculation:
A VDP is a point on the final approach course from which a stable visual descent can be made from the minimum descent altitude (MDA). To calculate a VDP, use the formula: Height Above Touchdown (HAT) / 300 (for a 3 degree glide slope).
AConversion of Climb Gradient:
Use the formula Ground Speed / 60 x Feet per Nautical Mile to convert climb gradients from feet per nautical mile to feet per minute (FPM).
ADescent Planning:
Use the formula Multiplying Your Height Above Field Elevation by 3 to calculate the distance to start descending at 500 FPM. Another formula to use is Altitude to Lose / 300 (for a 3 degree glide).
ARate of Descent Calculation:
To track a glide slope (3 degree), use the formula (Ground Speed / 60) x 300.
ADescent Rate Calculation:
To determine the descent rate to use from the Final Approach Fix (FAF) to a point before the runway on non-precision approaches, use the formula (Altitude to Lose / Distance) x (Ground Speed / 60).
AClimb Gradient Calculation:
To calculate the climb gradient required to climb over an obstacle, use the formula Obstacle Height / Distance from Airport.
By utilizing these formulas, you can improve your flight precision, situational awareness, and overall safety. What other simple math formulas have you used when flying? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
If you are a pilot looking to improve your safety and efficiency, there are some basic math formulas that can be incredibly helpful. These formulas can help to reduce your workload and make you a more effective pilot overall. For more in-depth information on these aviation math formulas, be sure to check out Wayman's blog. They offer detailed explanations of all the formulas mentioned above and more. Don't miss out on this valuable resource for pilots!