AA.VI.E.S11FAA-S-ACS-11A · Nov 2023Skills

Establish a predetermined rate of descent at the point where vertical guidance begins, ...

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Establish a predetermined rate of descent at the point where vertical guidance begins, which approximates that required for the aircraft to follow the vertical guidance.

Bottom line

The stabilized approach concept means maintaining a constant approach speed, descent rate, vertical flight path, and configuration during the final stages of an approach. The glideslope intercept altitude of a precision approach should be included in the IAP briefing, and awareness of this altitude when intercepting the glideslope helps ensure a false glideslope or other erroneous indication is not followed. When at a higher altitude than desired in a descent, lowering the nose to increase speed will increase the descent angle and get the aircraft back to the desired path.

FAA references

  1. IPH ch. 4 (p. 4-37) — FAA-H-8083-16B
  2. IPH ch. 4 (p. 4-19) — FAA-H-8083-16B
  3. RMH ch. 7 (pp. 7-2–7-3) — FAA-H-8083-2A
  4. AFH ch. 16 (p. 16-18) — FAA-H-8083-3C
Members lesson

Build understanding you can use

Unlock the full lesson and continue studying this element.

  • Full teaching sections: Standard; Meeting it; Deviations; Practice
  • Check your understanding with answers you can reveal
View membership options