Formulas / ATPL theory summary

(Rob Groothuis)

Index ATPL

Page 2 to 2

Handy formulas / guidelines general

Page 3 to 14

Formulas all subjects

Page 15 to 18

General navigation

Page 19 to 26

Meteorology

Page 27 to 31

Instrumentation

Page 32 to 33

Communications VFR / IFR

Page 34 to 34

Mass and balance

Page 35 to 36

Flight planning

Page 37 to 41

Human performance & limitations

Page 42 to 45

Radio navigation

Page 46 to 48

Principles of flight

Page 49 to 56

Aviation law

Page 57 to 57

Operational procedures

Page 58 to 59

Performance

Page 60 to 60

Aircraft general knowledge

-1-

Handy formulas/guidelines general

**PUSH THE HEAD AND PULL THE TAIL** intercepting NDB QDR/QDM

glidepath height ( ft ) =

glidepath angle
distance (ft) (300 ft/nm)
60

rate of descent (ft/min):

GS x 5 = 3 glide path
climb gradient =

rate of c lim b 6000

TAS 6080

glide path in =

...%
x 60
100

angle of bank in rate 1 turn =

radius of turn (NM) =

TAS
+ 7 (approximation)
10

TAS
rate 60

V 2 (m / s )
radius of turn (m) =
10 tan bankangle

n (load factor) =

1
cos bankangle

load factor = VStall increasing factor

IAS (position/instrument error) RAS/CAS (compressibility) EAS (density) TAS

EAS =

relative density x TAS (example: relative density = at 40000 ft)

VORs variation at station / NDBs variation at aircraft.

relative bearing + true heading = true bearing
QDR + var. = QTE (QDR = magnetic from station / QTE = true from station)
QDM 180 = QDR (radial) / QDM = bearings on the RMI (QDR = magnetic to)
LSS (kt) = 38,94 T ( K )

[273K = 0C]

LSS = 661 kt (at sea level at ISA temp.= 288 k)

LSS = 573 kt (ISA tropopause temp.= 216,5 k)

mach no. =

TAS
LSS
-2-

ATPL formulas General navigation

departure (E/W) in NM = longitude (in minutes) x cosine latitude
(earth) convergency = longitude x sine mean latitude
conversion angle = x convergency

rumbline

northern hemisphere

great circle

great circle

southern hemisphere

rumbline
Mercator projection; scale = scale x or cosine latitude ( x from equator / to equator)
simple conic / Lamberts projection
(chart) convergency = longitude x sine latitude (or parallel of origin / constant of the cone)
Polar stereographic
(chart) convergency = longitude

east
north

south

east
(grid navigation) convergence = longitude from datum meridian
(grid navigation) grivation = variation + convergence

glidepath height =

glidepath angle

60

distance (ft) (300 ft/nm)

rate of descent (ft/min) GS (NM) x 5 (at 3 glide slope)

glide path in =

...%
100

mach no. =

TAS
LSS

x 60

LSS 38,94 T ( K )
time to

[273K = 0C]

PNR / PSR (radius of action) =

distance to

CP =

D H
(O + H )

EH
(O + H )

/ E= safe endurance, H=GS home, O=GS out.

/ D=distance between airfields point of equal time, moving into the wind.

ISA 15C / 1013,25 mb / 1225 Gr/M3 = International Standard Atmosphere

-3-

1,98 C/1000ft lapse rate above MSL up to tropopause of 36000ft; remains constant at -56,5C up to
66000ft then increases by 0,3 C /1000ft up to 105000ft.
VORs variation at station / NDBs variation at aircraft.
relative bearing + true heading = true bearing
QDR + var. = QTE (QDR = magnetic from station / QTE = true from station)
QDM 180 = QDR (radial) / QDM = bearings on the RMI

NDBs plotting more than 2 longitudinal difference, convergency should be taken into account.

C + Dev. = M + Var. = T from magnetic to true to plot is algebraic sum, from true (plotline)
to QDM/QDR is algebraic sum (VARIATION).

NDB bearing move aircraft meridian to NDB and take aircraft position variation.

relative height ( ft ) range( NM )

=
9,4
depression angle

ATPL formulas Meteorology

DALR = 3 C/1000ft
SALR = 1,8 C/1000ft in temperate climates (not constant)
S.L - 1013mb 27 ft/mb // 18000 ft 500mb 48 ft/mb
[approximation] 4% height difference in true from indicated altitude for every 10C air mass diff. from ISA.
wet bulb temperature

tells roughly how moist the air is and lies between DEW point and OAT
Falls with 1,8 C/1000ft.

temperature rise fhn effect = (Lee cloud base windward cloud base) x 1,2

by day

by night

(free stream to surface in NH)

over land
over sea

deg. backed

free stream

deg. backed

free stream

30
10

50%
70%

40
10

30%
70%

ATPL formulas Instrumentation

latitude nut wander

= 15 x sine latitude (NH= +) in /hour

earth rotation wander = 15 x sine latitude (NH= -) in /hour

transport wander

E / W GS tan .lat
60

(NH= E= - / W= +)

total drift = real wander + earth rotation + lat. nut wander + transport wander
rate 1 turn
rate 2 turn
rate 3 turn

= 180/min (3/S)
= 360/min (6/S)
= 540/min (9/S)

angle of bank required for rate 1 turn =

radius of the turn (NM) =

TAS
+7
10

TAS
rate 60
-4-

ATPL formulas Communications VFR / IFR

speed of light = 300000 Km/s
wave length

C
f

(C=speed of light in m/s / f=frequency in Hertz)

max skip distance (NM) = 1,43 H (of ionosphere in Km)

maximum (theoretical) range (NM) =

1,25 H 1 + 1,25 H 2 (feet)

ATPL formulas Mass and balance

1 M = 3,28 ft / 1 ft = 0,304 M / USG or IG = 8 pints or 4 quarts
1 IG = 1,2 USG / 1 USG = 3,785 L / 1 Kg = 2,2 Lbs

mass change
change of CG
=
total old mass
dis tan ce from mass to new possition
mass : old (new) mass = CG : distance to new (old) CG

maximum permissible traffic load = MTOM DOM fuel on board

MTOM = maximum take of mass / MZFM = maximum zero fuel mass

MTOM
MTOM
DOM fuel (total) maximum traffic load

MZFM
MZFM
DOM ----maximum traffic load

maximum fuel load in MTOM => fuel = traffic load

maximum fuel load in MLM => fuel = traffic load (+ sector fuel)

-5-

MLM
MLM
DOM fuel (div+res) maximum traffic load

ATPL formulas Flight planning

best range jet = 1,32 x VIMD (indicated minimum drag speed)
SFC = fuel flow : thrust
SAR (jet) = TAS : (SFC x drag)
Best SAR (specific air range) is that altitude where 90% rpm gives 1,32 x VIMD without accelerating.
PSR or PNR last point on a route at which it is possible to return to destination with sensible fuel reserves.
time to point of no return =

EH
E = safe endurance / H = groundspeed home / O = GS out
(O + H )

the greatest distance to PNR/PSR is obtained in still air conditions.

ETP (equal time point) or CP (critical point) = for quickest way home determination.
distance to CP =

D H
D = total track distance / H = groundspeed home / O = GS out
(O + H )

for engine failure calculations take the less engine speed in formula!!

ATPL formulas - Radio navigation

speed of light = 300000 Km/s = 162000 NM/s
wave length

C
f

(C=speed of light in m/s / f=frequency in Hertz)

max skip distance (NM) =

1,43 H (of ionosphere in Km)

skip distances are increased at night as the ionosphere weakens and refract less.
maximum (theoretical) range (NM) =

1,25 H 1 + 1,25 H 2 (ft)

NDB maximum (theoretical) range = 3 power in watts

**PUSH THE HEAD AND PULL THE TAIL** intercepting NDB QDR/QDM.
cloud height above aircraft (ft) = range (ft) x (scanner tilt beam width) : 60
PRP = pulse recurrence period = time it takes to send and receive one pulse.
PRF = pulse repetition frequency = number of pulses per second.
PRP =

1
PRF

low PRF is needed for long range radars. Maximum range is controlled by PRF and power.
maximum theoretical range (m) =

C
(C=300.000.000 m/s)
2 PRF

-6-

minimum theoretical range (m) =

C pulse length
(C=300.000.000 m/s)
2

beamwidth = 70 x wave length : antenna diameter

glidepath height =
glide path in =

glidepath angle
distance (ft) (300 ft/nm)
60

...%
x 60
100

rate of descent (ft/min) 5 x GS (NM) (at 3 glide slope!!) (x

3,5
3

for

3,5 glide slope)

ATPL formulas - Principles of flight

IAS (position/instrument error) RAS/CAS (compressibility) EAS (density) TAS.
A x V = constant (A= area / V= speed)
P + ..V2 = constant
Q = ..V2 = dynamic pressure
Q and lift/drag are proportional to EAS2 // EAS is slightly less than IAS.
EAS = TAS only at ISA mean sea level density.
EAS =

relativedensity x TAS (example: relative density = at 40000 ft)

work done = force x distance // power required = force x speed

lift = CL. ..V2.S // CL = lift coefficient
total drag = CD. ..V2.S // CD = drag coefficient

load factor = VStall increasing factor.

radius of turn (NM) =

TAS
rate.x.60.

angle of bank in rate 1 turn =

radius of turn (m) =

V 2 (m / s )
10 tan bankangle

speed of sound (kt) = 38,94

Mach no. (M) =

TAS
+ 7 (approximation)
10

T (Kelvin)

TAS (kt )
(M is ratio and has no units)
LSS (kt )

n (load factor) =

1
cos bankangle

-7-

ATPL formulas - Aviation law / Operational procedures

ATS comprises 3 services;
1. Air Traffic Services; Area Control Service / Approach Control Service / Aerodrome Control Service
2. Flight Information Service
3. Allerting Service
Controlled airspace;
Class A: most airways, important control zones and control areas (IFR only).
Class B: upper airspace IFR and VFR permitted (controlled).
Class C: IFR + VFR (controlled) IFR is separated from IFR and VFR, VFR is separated from IFR and receive
traffic information about other VFR.
Class D: IFR + VFR (controlled) IFR is separated from IFR and receive traffic information in respect of VFR
flights. VFR receive traffic information on all other flights.
Class E: IFR + VFR permitted; IFR with air traffic control service and are separated from other IFR. All flights
receive traffic information as far as practicable (no control zones).
Class F: IFR + VFR permitted; IFR flights receive air traffic advisory service and all flights receive flight
information service if requested.
Class G: IFR + VFR permitted and receive flight information service if requested.
air traffic control service: IFR A, B, C, D and E / VFR B, C and D + all aerodrome traffic at controlled
aerodromes.
aerodrome reference codes (first element);
1=< 800M / 2=800-1200M / 3=1200-1800M / 4=>1800M
braking action: 0,4=good(5) / 0,39-0,36=medium to good(4) / 0,35-0,3=medium(3) /
0,29-0,26=medium to poor(2) / <0,25=poor(1)
MSA = 1000 ft clearance within 25NM.
speed categories are calculated as 1,3 x stall speed in landing configuration.
A= < 91kt / B= 91-121kt / C=121-141kt / D=141-166kt / E=166-211kt
approach segment arrival / initial / intermediate / final / missed approach.
Arival ends at IAF.
Procedures are used to direct the aircraft. 45/180 procedure turn // 80/260 procedure turn // base turns
// race track procedure.
Initial IAF to IF (intermediate fix).
Intermediate obstacle clearance reduces from 1000ft to 500ft in the primary area.
Final approach begins at FAF and ends at MAPt (missed approach point).
Missed approach must be initiated if the visual references are not obtained by the time the aircraft reaches
the MAPt.

-8-

-9-

- 10 -

parallel entry

direct entry

offset entry

5 zone flexibility either side of the boundaries

- 11 -

landing categories

category
I
II
III A
III B
III C

aircraft minima; DH / RVR

200 ft on barometric altimeter / RVR > 550 m
100 ft on radio altimeter / RVR 300 m
0 ft on radio altimeter / RVR 200 m
0 ft on radio altimeter / RVR 75 m
0 ft on radio altimeter / RVR 0 m

jets must be able to land in 60% and turboprops in 70% of the LDA.
contaminated runway = > 25% of surface area is covered by;
>3mm of water or equivalent deep slush/snow.
compressed snow to solid mass.
ice incl. wet ice.
runway is considered wet < 3mm water without significant areas of standing water.
class B aircraft must be able to land in 70% of LDA, slope is taken into account.
net performance is worse than gross (Gross= 50:50 chance of better/worse).
NAT-OTS

eastbound Z-A, bottom to top (red eye) 01:00 to 08:00 hours

westbound A-Z, top to bottom
11:30 to 18:00 hours

heavy>136000kg / medium= 7000kg 136000kg / light<7000kg.

- 12 -

ATPL formulas - Performance

thrust power power = thrust x speed
VIMD = where profile drag = induced drag alpha = constant = 4
TODA = TORA + clearway. Some runways have an overrun called stopway.
ASDA = EDA (emergency distance available) = TORA + stopway.
balanced field : TODA = ASDA.
IAS (position/instrument error) RAS/CAS (compressibility) EAS (density) TAS.
VR > 1,05 VMCA (one engine out). VMC is highest where the air is cold and dense (asymmetric thrust is
greatest).
V1
V2
V3
V4

=
=
=
=

decision speed.
safety speed = target speed to be attained at the screen height (35ft/15ft) with OEI.
all engines speed at the screen (between V2 and V4).
all engine initial climb speed (V2 + 10kt).

class A jets must land in 60% of LDA, Turbo props and class B in 70%.
LDA x 60% = Gross LDR.
hydroplaning speed (kt) = 9
braking coefficient
0,4 >
0,39 0,36
0,35 0,30
0,29 0,26
0,25 <
climb gradient =

P ( psi ) (bar x 14,5 = psi).

braking action
good
medium to good
medium
medium to poor
poor

rate of c lim b 6000

TAS 6080

- 13 -

snowtam
5
4
3
2
1

ATPL formulas - Aircraft General Knowledge

F = force (lbs) / A = area (sq in in2) / P = pressure (psi) bar x 14,5 = psi
P=

F
A

V = I x R // P = I2 x R // P = V x I
hydroplaning speed (kt) = 9

P ( psi ) (bar x 14,5 = psi)

F (Hz) = rpm x pole pairs x 60

force = mass x acceleration // momentum = mass x velocity // work = force x distance
Power =

work
time

the ratio of air to fuel which ensures complete combustion = 15:1 by weight.
manifold pressure is absolute pressure / boost pressure is relative to ISA pressure at sea level.
speed diagram (with increasing altitude)
E

E = EAS
R = RAS / CAS
T = TAS
M = mach number
RAS/CAS is derived from rho V2

speed

- 14 -

General navigation (ATPL)

departure (E/W) in NM = longitude (in minutes) x cosine latitude
(earth) convergency = longitude x sine mean latitude
conversion angle = x convergency

rumbline

northern hemisphere

great circle

great circle

southern hemisphere

rumbline
Mercator projection; scale = scale x or cosine latitude ( x from equator / to equator)
simple conic / Lamberts projection
(chart) convergency = longitude x sine latitude (or parallel of origin / constant of the cone)
Polar stereographic
(chart) convergency = longitude

east
north

south

east
(grid navigation) convergence = longitude from datum meridian
(grid navigation) grivation = variation + convergence

glidepath height =

glidepath angle

60

distance (ft) (300 ft/nm)

rate of descent (ft/min) GS (NM) x 5 (at 3 glide slope)

glide path in =

...%
100

mach no. =

TAS
LSS

x 60

LSS 38,94 T ( K )
time to

[273K = 0C]

PNR / PSR (radius of action) =

distance to

CP =

D H
(O + H )

EH
(O + H )

/ E= safe endurance, H=GS home, O=GS out.

/ D=distance between airfields point of equal time, moving into the wind.

ISA 15C / 1013,25 mb / 1225 Gr/M3 = International Standard Atmosphere

- 15 -

1,98 C/1000ft lapse rate above MSL up to tropopause of 36000ft; remains constant at -56,5C up to
66000ft then increases by 0,3 C /1000ft up to 105000ft.
VORs variation at station / NDBs variation at aircraft.
QDR + var. = QTE (QDR = magnetic from station / QTE = true from station)
QDM 180 = QDR (radial) / QDM = bearings on the RMI

NDBs plotting more than 2 longitudinal difference, convergency should be taken into account.

C + Dev. = M + Var. = T from magnetic to true to plot is algebraic sum, from true (plotline)
to QDM/QDR is algebraic sum (VARIATION).

NDB bearing move aircraft meridian to NDB and take aircraft position variation.

relative height ( ft ) range( NM )

=
depression angle
9,4
true bearing = relative bearing + true heading
concave = hol // convex = bol

Mercators projection light inside wire model of earth developed cylinder, scale expands from

equator.
scale = scale x or cosine lat. (from equator=x and to equator=)
RL are straight, GC concave to equator.
- not above/below 70 N/S.
- radio bearing connot be plotted; GC = concave.
- long distances connot be measured.
- shapes / angles are OK over small areas.

simple conic projection parallel of origin; convergency correct.

(sine of parallel of origine = N = constant of the cone = convergency

factor).

Lamberts projection 2 standard parallels (scale correct).

1 parallel of origin (convergency correct).

maximum spread of latitude 24.
- parallel of origin is slightly closer to the pole from midway.
GC are nearly straight (slightly curved, concave to parallel of origin).
RL are nearly straight (slightly curved, concave to the pole).
scale within 1% constant // coverage 80N to 80S.
-

Transverse mercator cylindrical projection with a meridian as its GC of tangency (central meridian).
convergency correct at central meridian and along the equator. usable within 350NM of central meridian.

Oblique mercator GC of tangency is neither equator nor meridian (false equator of the projection).
for particular routes (one offs).
Polar stereographic touches at pole. scale and convergency is correct at pole.
scale expand away from pole.
GC assumed right, actual curved concave to the pole.
RL concave to the pole.
before INS, GPS or Loran ignoring compasses and flying gyro heading. maps were overlaid with a grid of
lines indicating gyro north.
datum meridian = meridian where true north equals grid north.
convergency = difference between grid track and true track.

- 16 -

QFE
QNH
QFF
QNE

= zero reading at airfield datum.

= airfield elevation reading when on the airfield.
= pressure observed at airfield datum reduced to sea level using ambient conditions.
= height indicated at touchdown with 1013,2 mb setting. Used when QFE or QNH are outside the
range of the subscale high airfields.

density altitude = that altitude in ISA to which the actual density corresponds.
IAS (position/instrument error) RAS/CAS (compressibility) EAS (density) TAS.
If TAS > 300 kt apply extra compressibility factor (always negative).
fluxgate detector (for remote reading compass) not free to rotate.

Compass deviation;

P = longitudinal deviation component (magnetic force).

Q = lateral deviation component (magnetic force).
B = deviation coefficient (angle) due to P component (longitudinal).
C = deviation coefficient (angle) due to Q component (lateral).
A = fixed mis-allignment coefficient (independent of heading).
total deviation = A + B(sine heading) + C(cosine heading)
track made good = required track +/- track error angle.
drift = angle between track made good and heading.
bearing = direction from one point to another.
relative bearing is FROM fore/aft axis.
QUJ = true bearing to station.
QTE = true bearing from station.
QDR = magnetic bearing from station (radial).
QDM = magnetic bearing to station.
TIME
plane of the elliptic = at 23,5 to the equator.
earth orbit is elliptical with the sun at one focus.
plane of the elliptic is approximately 66,5.
solstice = sun highest/lowest point summer/winter.
23,5 S =tropic of Capricorn (21st of December) // 23,5 N = tropic of Cancer (21st of June).
equinoxes = 0, day and night are equal length (spring and autumn).
aphelion = sun is furthest from the earth // perihelion = sun is closest to the earth.
sidereal = sterrentijd.
a transit = time taken between when the sun appears to pass overhead our meridian of longitude and the
next transit is called a day.
length of a day varies not because the speed of rotation varying, or because of the tilt of the axis, but
because the orbit is not symmetrical.
apparent solar day = the earth must turn trough more (or less) than 360 to get the sun overhead again.
mean solar day = an average of these long and short days (basis of our measurement of time).
the equation of time = difference between apparent and mean solar day.
mean sun= fictious body. mean day is the time between 2 successive transits of the mean sun = constant.

- 17 -

civil year = orbit around the mean sun = 365,24 days.

leap year = extra day (29th February) every 4 years (except whole century years unless it is devisable by
400).
time conversion

= longitude west Greenwich best

= longitude east Greenwich least

a solar day is just under 365,25 days, the sidereal year just over // celestial body = hemellichaam
sidereal time (sterrentijd) and the first point of aries are also used to define the position of the sun, moon,
planets and stars.
sub point

= point on the earth immediately beneath a celestial body. can be defined using a system
similar to lat and long. lat=declination and long=hour angle.

equinoctial = equivalent of equator (hemel equator).

hour angle is measured westward from 0 to 360, with 3 different datums (Greenwich, Local and Sidereal).
GHA / LHA / SHA (west from meridian to celestial body).
first point of aries = fixed datum in space.

LMT is used to list the times of sunrise, sunset and twilight (schemering).
morning civil twilight

= starts when the sun is 6 below the horizon and ends at sunrise.

evening civil twilight

= starts at sunset and ends when the sun is 6 below the horizon.

66,6 N/S

= sun does not rise in winter of the hemisphere.

64,5 N/S

= sun does not set in summer of the hemisphere.

60,5 N/S

= sun does not go as far as 6 below (in summer), there is continuous twilight between
sunset and sunrise.

- 18 -

Meteorology
water vapour in atmosphere

mean quantity 1% (vary from 0 to 4%). Highest level low down

troposphere, areas of high temperatures.

CO2 absorbs long wave radiation from the earth.

O3 (ozone) layer mainly in upper troposphere and lower stratosphere. plays major part in absorbing harmful
ultra violet radiation from the sun.
rate of change of pressure with height is not linear (warm/cold).
T in atmosphere only affects rate of pressure/density fall.
warm air mass = hogere hoogte druk // cold air mass = lagere hoogte druk.
S.L - 1013mb 27 ft/mb // 18000 ft 500mb 48 ft/mb
in stratosphere temperature rises again due to ozone layer absorbs radiant energy from sun in the ultra violet
band.
ozone layer = 18-30 KM
troposphere-(t-pause)-stratosphere-(s-pause)-mesosphere-(m-pause)-thermosphere-(t-pause)
18km
50km
80km
150km
75% of atmosphere by weight lies below tropopause.
tropopause;

poles
mid latitude
equator

7,6 km / -45C
12,2 km / -55C
16,8 km / -75C

standard atmosphere temperature drop = 1,98 C/1000ft to 11km at -56,5C

QFF

= pressure displayed on surface isobar charts.

= station pressure adjusted down to MSL using actual station temperature.

QNE

= touchdown height indicated on altimeter if 1013mb is set.

= pressure altitude at touchdown point (used at high airfields).

[approximation] 4% height difference in true from indicated altitude for every 10C air mass difference
from ISA.
1 cal = 1 gram of water heated 1 k (specific heat)
long wave radiation transfers a lot of heat out to the troposphere (from 100 units, 42 units) , 12 units by
convection, latent heat 46 units.
wet bulb temperature

tells roughly how moist the air is and lies between DEW point and OAT
falls with 1,8 C/1000ft.

at 100% RH; DP, wet bulb and OAT are the same.
ELR

= environmental lapse rate // adiabatic = no energy loss or gain

DALR

= 3 C/1000ft

SALR

= 1,8 C/1000ft in temperate climates (not constant)

- 19 -

ELR>DALR and SALR

ELR

DALR

SALR

absolutely unstable air mass

Temperature
ELR<SALR (and DALR)

DALR

SALR

ELR

stable air mass

Temperature
when ELR is in between DALR and SALR, air mass is conditionally unstable.
* stable if rising air is dry.
* unstable if rising air is saturated.
triggers some form of push or trigger is needed to get convection going.
orographic, thermal, frontal, non frontal convergence, turbulence.
inversions;

at fronts / surface cooling at night / subsidence inversion / valley inversion.

pressure gradient force (PGF)

= force that acts on a parcel of air at right angles to the isobars. the
closer together, the stronger the PGF.

geostrophic force (GF) = (coriolis effect) object not on the earth surface, seen by an air based
observer, appear to turn right in the northern hemisphere and left in the SH.
geostrophic force = 2 x x x v Sine lat. ( = earth rate of rotation)
geostrophic wind = steady state wind, free stream along the isobars. PGF=GF but opposed directed.
for the same isobar spacing, wind speeds are higher near the equator.
gradient wind = modified wind around pressure systems (curved isobars).
for gradient wind compared to the geostrophic wind low round low, high round high.
inside 15 lat., the geostrophic wind scale does not work, so tropical winds are calculated, not measured.
these winds are called cyclostrophic winds.

- 20 -

surface winds are measured 10M above the ground.

laminar boundary layer = 1000ft to 1500ft thick (by convention).
turbulent boundary layer

= 2000ft thick (by convention).

wind change in boundary layer N.H. direction change from 250 to 240 is said to be backing.
S.H. direction change from 10 to 20 is said to be veering.

by day
over land
over sea
isallobars

by night

(free stream to surface in NH)

deg. backed

free stream

deg. backed

free stream

30
10

50%
70%

40
10

30%
70%

= lines that join places with equal rate of change of pressure.

isallobaric effect

acknowledges that air flows into a low and out of a high across the isobars
(correction needed when pressure is changing).

temperature rise fhn effect = (lee cloud base windward cloud base) x 1,2
katabatic wind = flow down the sides of hills and mountains at night or very cold days with no strong
gradient wind to hide the effect (Bora in Rhone valley).
anabatic wind = blow up the sides of hills and mountains on hot days during the day. air heated by
conduction tend to convect straight up rather than follow the slope of the mountain
anabatic winds only show when there is a gentle gradient wind flowing onto the slope
which is than enhanced by the anabatic effect.
sea breeze

= right angle to beach land unless either 15 kt, after 15:00 LMT or fully developed is
stated then along the beach, low pressure (land) on the left (NH!).

thermal component / thermal wind vector direct result of mean temperature differences in air mass aloft.
the high level wind is the vector sum of the low level wind and the thermal component (thermal wind vector).
contour charts = height of particular pressure level / isohypes = contour lines.
thickness charts =

vertical extend between 2 pressure levels (show more clearly the distribution of
temperature in the atmosphere as variations in mean sea level pressure are removed.

isopleths

= lines of equal thickness.

cold pool

= isopleths indicating cold air and also forming closed circles.

jet stream

= a strong narrow current of air on a nearly horizontal axis in the upper troposphere or lower
stratosphere exceeding 60 kt, characterised by strong lateral and vertical windshear (CAT).

jets will be found in the warmer air at or just below the warm air tropopause, but on surface charts will
APPEAR to be on the cold side of the deviding line (due to slope cold/warm).
westerly and easterly waves distributed by large landmasses or high mountains.
- in SH no really significant land blocks south of 30 except the Andes range in Chile and the southern Alps in
New Zealand.
- in NH Rocky mountains in North America and the Himalayan in Asia.
so big westerly waves only in the NH.
easterly upper flow is generally light and significant waves are rare. the one known instance occurs over
Africa at around latitude 15 - 20 north in July to September reaching jet speeds having been accelerated
by the monsoon season in north India.

- 21 -

can affect surface pressure over West Africa, producing a series of large line squalls of CB drifting out toward
the Caribbean.
cloud base

> 6500 ft a.g.l. = medium (alto) temperate latitudes.

> 16500 ft a.g.l. = high (cirro) temperate latitudes.

single cell CB

development phase 15-20 min ( total 2 hours travelling with 10000 ft wind, 700 mb).
developing, mature and dying stage.
general upward movement of 3000-4000 ft/min.
tops have been measured rising with 5000 ft/min.
active period < 1 hour (mature stage 30-40 min).

super cell thunderstorm

conditions; warm air below, cold dry air aloft with strong upper winds
(usually between sub-tropical and polar air).

jet stream CAT

maximum CAT at a jet stream is found level with or just below the height of
the jet core, in the warm air but on the cold side of the jet.

microburst

= extreme form of windshear generated by the slug of descending air from a

thunderstorm cell. downdrafts 3000-4000 ft/min possible. floating in opposite
directions when hitting the ground with 50 kt vector change in service wind over
a few km. last only minutes.

gust front

= cold downdraft wind in front of thunderstorm. produce roll cloud up to 6000 ft /

24-32 km ahead of the storm.

LLWAS

= low level wind shear alert system (anemometers surrounding the airfield or
doppler radar, directly measuring wind vectors).

wind shear at inversions and at the boundary layer

* free windstream of 40 kt, turbulence in the boundary layer and 20 kt groundwind + 40 heading
difference.
* a vector difference between surface and free stream wind of 40 kt.
* a temperature inversion of > 10 in the first 1000 ft a.g.l. completely isolating surface wind from
free stream wind.
* presence of a turbulence inversion.
standing waves (+mountain waves, lee waves) maximum turbulence is at the height of the ridge and one
wavelength down (5-10 NM).
wake turbulence clearance 2 minutes or 4NM for heavy behind heavy.
no icing above 0C or below -45C, clear ice near 0C, rime near -25C.
0C highest proportion of dangerous clear ice in cloud.
radiation fog
advection fog
arctic smoke

surface cools at night due to long wave radiation and the cold surface cools the air
in contact by conduction.
when a warm moist air mass moves over a cold surface. high wind can lift advection
fog to low stratus or clear it all together by mixing.
the reverse mechanism from advection fog. cold air passes over a warm surface.
normally this triggers convection so a marked temperature inversion has to be present.

- 22 -

air masses

classification by their source region; polar/arctic/tropical and track classification;

continental and maritime.

(PM) polar maritime

cool, moist, conditionally unstable air (convective cloud, showers

and good visibility) west-north/west.
(AM) arctic maritime
north.
(PC) polar continental only in winter present for in summer the surface temperatures in the source
region rises to 20-25C and it becomes an area of mean low pressure.
(TM) tropical maritime source is warm, moist, and stable. Azores high south-west.
(TC) tropical continental comes from Turkey and eastern Mediterranean in summer where it is stable
and hot but not particular dry. summer air mass but summer extends to
the autumn in practice.
cold fronts and cold occlusions move at roughly the speed directly taken from the geostrophic wind scale.
warm fronts and warm occlusions move slower at approximately 2/3 of the speed.
thermal equator = line of maximum surface temperatures equatorial trough ITCZ.
transitional zones circulation patterns and the weather moving with the thermal equator producing zones
that have one type of weather in the summer and another in winter.
0C at equator 16000 ft.
doldrums

= exist at the ITCZ only when it is near the geographical equator = band of light and
variable winds.

ITCZ between 30 NM and 300 NM wide when moving, worst weather on the trailing side.
TRS = tropical revolving storm (sea water >26C) 64 kt sustained wind or more.
* polar climate
*
*
*
*
*

65 - 90 lat. = polar high with dry, stable descending air cold settled
conditions often displaced by travelling depressions. surface is icecap
or tundra.
disturbed temperate climate 40 - 65 lat. = weather is dominated by travelling depressions
with occasional high pressure systems. precipitation is high with
mostly westerly winds.
temperate transitional climate 35 - 40 lat. = a boundary zone which experiences the disturbed
temperate climate in winter and the drier subtropical conditions in
summer (mediterranean climate).
arid subtropical climate
20 - 35 lat. = continuous subtropical highs. generally fine weather.
dessert regions predominate in these areas.
tropical transitional climate 10 - 20 lat. = mainly influenced by dry trade winds but in the
summer of the hemisphere the belt of equatorial rain produces a
distinct wet season (Savannah climate).
equatorial zone
10S / 10N lat. = influenced by the weather at the ITCZ, which moves
north and south with the season. heavy rain and thunderstorms can occur
throughout the year.

boreal climate zone (dry climate zone) anomalous weather zone that occur only in the large landmasses of
the NH cool moist summers and very cold winters.
monsoon climate on the sea borders of the major continental blocks. example; SW and NE monsoons of
S/E Asia.
FIT = front inter tropical (French charts) = ITCZ.
the effect of thermal changes over the landmasses in winter and summer leads to the general statement that
westerly jets are at their fastest leaving landmasses on the westside of the major oceans. the effect is most
marked for sub-tropical jets in the winter of the hemisphere and for polar front jets in the summer.
jets slow and stabilize when running over large areas of open water.

- 23 -

AFTN = aeronautical fixed telecommunications network via fax and telex.

MOTNE = (Europe) meteorological operational telecommunications network Europe.
MIST

= meteorological information standard terminal full meteorological service for national and
international flights at most airports.

WAFS = world area forecast system (Bracknell, Frankfurt and Paris).

ICAO 3 weather domains

- LL (FL100-250), ML (FL250-450), HL (FL450-600).

sigmet = validity is 4 hours, volcanic ash warnings may be valid for up to 12 hours.
general warnings

= fog, normally for visibility < 600 M.

strong winds > 33 kt or gusts 42 kt.

ASDAR = aircraft to satellite data relay (automatic aireps to WAFC Washington and Bracknell).
0000 vis < 50 M / 9999 > 10 KM windshear in Metar when below 1600 ft.
few = 1/8 , 2/8
scattered = 3/8 , 4/8
broken = 5/8 , 6/8 , 7/8
overcast = 8/8
MSLPC = mean sea level pressure chart general weather and the movement of weather systems.
high level significant weather chart 3 hours before and after valid.
a satellite at 36000 km altitude will revolve around the earth once every 24 hours. if placed at launch over the
equator, orbiting in the same direction as the earths rotation, it will appear stationary. this is known as a
geostationary orbit.
low orbit polar satellites that orbit from the North Pole to the South Pole at about 900 KM altitude giving
bands of detailed imagery.
there is a ring of geostationary satellites around the equator. european meteorological images come from
meteostat, a geostationary satellite at the equator on the Greenwich meridian and from polar orbit satellites.
airborne weather radar = basic radar displays areas of greatest signal returns (greatest concentration of
raindrops) green, yellow and red on EFIS display. doppler radar on EFIS
will add magenta indicating turbulence.
turbulence light=0-0,5G / moderate=0,5-1G / severe=>1G

- 24 -

Weather chart symbols

- 25 -

- 26 -

Instrumentation
configuration error = position error.
manoeuvre error = rolling / pitching / yawing and random gusts.
TAT = SAT + kinetic heating (RAM rise).
K = recovery factor measured TAT to true TAT

(SAT= OAT= COAT).

total head thermometer also Rosemount probe.

angle of attack sensor = vane sensor or pressure sensor.
accelerometer = load factor sensor.
ASI only calibrated to ISA MSL density.
static blockage of ASI over reads.
altimeter calibrated to ISA temperature/pressure/density for all heights (non linear linkage).
hysteresis error = capsule in altimeter is not perfectly elastic so will distort differently for large
increases / decreases in altitude.
sensitive altimeter = increasing sensitivity by having a stack of 2 or more capsules.
mach meter

= ASI + altimeter interacting in the same case (ratio arm ranging arm indicator).
only instrument and pressure error (very small so indicated can be taken to be true).
density and temperature errors are self compensated.

speed diagram (with increasing altitude)

E

E = EAS
R = RAS / CAS
T = TAS
M = mach number
RAS/CAS is derived from rho V2

Speed
ADC = air data computer. feed pitot / static / TAT output to servo driven instruments.
gyroscopes planes of freedom space gyro = 3 planes of freedom (= 2 of freedom).
gimbal = gyro frame, at least 1 gimbal for every axis (cardanische ring).
degrees of freedom = planes of freedom 1 (axis of rotation).
tied gyros

= external influence controlling the direction of the spin axis.

- directional gyro = axis tied to the horizontal.
- artificial horizon = axis tied to the earths gravity.

rate gyro

= rate of turn indicator freedom of movement in plane of rotation and one more
plane 90 to the first.

azimuth
drift
topple

= hoek met meridiaanvlak.

= when spin axis turns in earth horizontal plane.
= when axis tilts in any earth vertical plane.

- 27 -

real wander
apparent wander
transport wander

= spin axis moves away from its initial defined orientation in space.
= orientation in space has changed while the gyros orientation has not.
= If gyro is aligned to north on one part of the earth and then moved to another.

latitude nut wander

= 15 x sine latitude (NH= +) in /hour

earth rotation wander = 15 x sine latitude (NH= -) in /hour

transport wander

E / W GS Tan Latitude
(NH= E= - / W= +)
60

total drift = real wander + earth rotation + latitude nut wander + transport wander.
turn indicator= -

one degree of freedom (2 planes of freedom) thus one gimbal.

rate gyro.
spring force produces a secondary precession equal to and in the same direction as the yaw.
looping error (when rapidly pitched nose up).
are calibrated to show rates of turns correctly in balanced turns for rate 1, 2 and 3 at
specific angle of bank and and TAS.
- gyro turns away from pilot reason= this way at balanced turn the gyro precesses
in opposite roll axis approximately horizontal thus more sensitive to turn rates.
- errors vacuum leak= under reading / feed failure= no reading.

rate 1 turn
rate 2 turn
rate 3 turn

= 180/min (3/S)
= 360/min (6/S)
= 540/min (9/S)

angle of bank required for rate 1 turn =

radius of the turn (NM) =

TAS
+7
10

TAS
rate 60

turn coordinator is a development of the turn indicator. the gimbal is raised at the front by 30, thus
instrument is sensitive to both roll and yaw only indicates rate 1 turns accurately. unfortunately can easily
be confused with the artificial horizon therefore warning no pitch information.
RLG = ring laser gyro = relatively new technology, mainly present in IRS (inertial reference system).
RLG dither is there to correct a specific problem.
rate integrating gyro (RI) where extreme accuracy is required (gimbal gain). one degree of freedom,
2 planes of freedom. sensitive to cross coupling.
in a strap down IRS, 3 RLG are mounted at right angles to each other and the whole set is fixed to the
aircraft frame.
the system measures all rotations about the 3 axis giving a very accurate readout of aircraft attitude with
reference to a space datum.
aclinic line = magnetic equator (no (in)cline) / isoclinic = lines joining points of equal dip.
DIP = angle between earths horizontal and resultant force.
aperiodic = fully damped system.
acceleration error

= due to dip, CG in pendulous suspension system is not exact

underneath the pivot.

in NH an E/W acceleration produces an apparent turn to north (in SH the other way around).
turning errors are a function of dip so zero on aclinic line and significant up to 35 N/S.
turns through the near pole; LAG // through the far pole; LEAD.

- 28 -

compass deviation;

P = longitudinal deviation component (magnetic force).

Q = lateral deviation component (magnetic force).
B = deviation coefficient (angle) due to P component (longitudinal).
C = deviation coefficient (angle) due to Q component (lateral).
A = fixed misalignment coefficient (independent of heading).
Total deviation = A + B(sine heading) + C(cosine heading).
compass card = deviation table.
fluxgate detector = measuring of earth magnetic field (not free to rotate).
selsyn system = self synchronising system.
G4F = single display system (gyro corrected continuously by selsyn transmission system).
G4B = remote repeater system (adds a master control unit to the gyro unit). Has the ability to feed
headings to other remote systems like AP.
Com + Dev = Mag + Var = True
INS = inertial navigation system (=IRU or IRS).
acceleration (first integration) speed (second integration) distance.
inertial accelerometers detect linear acceleration (E and I bar system).
1e

stable platform system the platform the accelerometers are mounted on are kept level and aligned
to north and measure acceleration relative to the platform.

2e

wander angle system only keeping it level and detecting how far it is out of alignment to north.

3e

strapped down system not worrying about either level or north alignment. just detecting how far
out of alignment and out of level at initialisation and than monitor any changes.
alignment takes approximately 5 to 10 minutes dependent upon latitude.

gyro compassing = aligning of the stable platform with true north (takes about 15 minutes).
INS cockpit equipment = MSU (mode selector unit) // CDU (control display unit).
IRS (inertial reference system) uses 3 accelerometers and 3 ring laser gyros.
bounded errors do not increase with time, unbounded do.
both strapped down and stable platform systems suffer from Schuler errors.
the Schuler cycle is a damped 84,4 minutes.
power failure if power is lost, alignment is lost and the NAV function will not work again.
older stand alone INS units no more than 3 NM/hr drift typically allowed.
FDF (primary flight display) = EADI (electronic attitude director indicator).
ND (navigation display) = EHSI (electronic horizontal situation indicator)
EFIS colour coding

//

SG = symbol generator.

green =active or selected mode, changing conditions.

white = present situation and scales.
magenta = command information, weather radar turbulence.
cyan (blauw) = non active and background information.
yellow = caution.
red = warning.
black = off.

ECAM = electronic centralised aircraft monitoring (airbus EICAS).

E/W = engine warning system.

- 29 -

APFDS auto pilot flight director system. consists of auto pilot, FD system, auto throttle and yaw damper.
function of the outer loop is to control, inner loop to stabilize.
stability functions are yaw damper, pitch attitude and roll attitude
system gain is higher at low speed.
CMD = full auto pilot control // CWS = control wheel steering (outer loop control).
EPR = engine pressure ratio = designation of engine power output.
N1 = fan speed as a percentage (B737).
auto land;

fail active system = allows the approach to continue after a single failure.
fail passive = 2 systems total.

CAT III = full auto lands glide slope signal is disconnected at 45ft radio height.
CAT II/III use DH based on radio height.
warnings or level A alerts = require immediate crew action.
caution or level B alerts = require immediate crew alertness and possible future actions.
advisory or level C alerts = require crew alertness only.
radio altimeter;

active from 2500ft down to ground level.

transmit a 30 cone down.
SHF between 4200MHz and 4400MHz described as FM.
the difference between transmitting and returning, the beat frequency, is measured.
accuracy = 1ft or 3% (the greater of them).

TAWS terrain awareness warning system.

GPWS mode 1; active 2450ft radio to 50ft and when barometric descent> 3x radio height (sink rate /
pull up warning).
mode 2; triggered by reducing radio altitude and warns of raising ground (terrain warning).
mode 3; warns of barometric height loss after TOGA (flaps and gear not in approach configuration)
(dont sink warning).
mode 4; warns of closeness to the ground without the appropriate gear/flap selection (to low
terrain warning when at high speed and to low flaps at lower speeds).
mode 5; deviation below glide slope (glide slope warning).
mode 6; height and bank angles call outs designed to increase situational awareness (not required
by JAR OPS).
mode 7; provides wind shear alerts and warnings (not required by JAR OPS).
stall warning = alpha sensor (vane or based on pressure).
TCAS = ACAS (airborne collision avoidance system).
TA = traffic advisory traffic traffic // RA = resolution advisory.
RA = crew response is to follow the instructions smoothly and promptly. pilot must inform ATC of deviations
from clearances ASAP.
TCAS inputs

mode S replies / ADC for FL / IRS for attitude / flap position / radio altimeter.

(D)FDR = flight data recorder // CVR = cockpit voice recorder.

TGT= turbine gas / EGT= exhaust gas / TIT= turbine inlet / TET= turbine entry / JPT= jet pipe
(700/1000C).
thermo couples; dissimilar metals can create an electrical potential at their junction which is proportional to
the temperature. (thermo EMF) high temperatures.
galvanometer = millimetric voltmeter.
optical or radiation pyrometers really high temperature measurement.

- 30 -

*
*
*
*
*

direct tachometers = need to be near the cockpit.

DC tachogenerator = output a voltage that varies with engine speed (wear and sparks).
single phase tachogenerator = rectified to DC (no wear and sparks).
three phase tachogenerator = frequency output that varies with speed.
induction tachometer = suitable for high speeds (use a phonic wheel) digital output.

synchroscope = 1 master engine as reference.

pressure gauges = elastic pressure sensing elements are used.
MAP = manifold air pressure is an indication of the torque generated by the engine.
MAP measuring device = pressure bellows and fixed aneroid bellows working together.
EPR = engine pressure ratio.
FADEC = full authority digital engine control system.
capacitance systems = indicate fuel mass, not volume (=advantage).
fuel gauges always read zero after failure.
venturi flow indicator = accuracy 2%.
variable orifice flow indicator measuring volume but can be directed to mass flow using temperature
sensitive resistors to compensate for density changes.
turbine volume flow indicators turbine blades are built with magnetic inserts. the blades pass an induction
coil in the casing. do not cope well with the large rate and temperature ranges on modern aircraft, these use
a mass flow indicator.
mass flow indicator meet massa traagheid van de vloeistof speed x mass, so true mass can be indicated
- stator torque.
- rotor torque.
attitude indicator (artificial horizon) turning errors
Pitch
Over

Unde

Turn

90

180

270

- 31 -

Communications VFR / IFR

speed of light = 300000 km/s
wave length

C
f

(C=speed of light in m/s / f=frequency in Hertz)

AM = amplitude modulation (varying the amplitude), often single side band.

FM = frequency modulation (varying the frequency to ad intelligence. less static interference than AM,
greater power required, complex receiver required.
pulse modulation = digital data or morse.
VHF communication = vertically polarised (vertical aerial, vertical E field).
NAV frequencies = horizontally polarised.
refraction (breking) due to change of speed (low frequencies) hoek.
diffraction (buiging) due to passing sharp objects (low frequencies) bocht.
propagation = voortplanten // ducting = geleiding // attenuation = loss of signal strength of wave.
atmospheric attenuation increases at higher frequencies. Significant > 1GHz.
surface attenuation increases at higher frequencies.
ionospheric attenuation increases as frequency decreases.
space waves = line of sight waves.
maximum (theoretical) range (NM) =

1,25 H 1 + 1,25 H 2 (ft)

surface waves caused by diffraction and ground conductivity slowing the wave. are longest at low
frequencies.
sky waves refract from ionosphere only reliable in HF band but present as interference in MF and LF.
D/E/F1/F2 layer winter/day.
E/F layer winter/summer day.
ionosphere is weaker at night (+ summer day more dense than winter day).
max skip distance (NM) =

1,43 H (of ionosphere in km)

atmospheric and surface attenuation = greatest at HF.

ionospheric attenuation = greatest at LF.
surface waves = start to be significant in HF and get longer with lower frequencies.
atmospheric ducting is occasionally present in VHF and higher.
ionospheric ducting is present in VLF only.
static is greatest at low frequencies.

- 32 -

HF is used for long range communications, aviation frequencies: 2,85MHz to 22MHz.

VHF is used for short range communications, aviation frequencies: 118MHz to 137MHz.
selcal (selective calling) 4 letter code (each airframe) checked at first contact with new ATC unit.
sitcom 4 satellites at 30000 km orbit stationary to earth.
ACAR = VHF data link between operator and aircraft.
bearing class A = 2 , class B = 5 , class C = 10 , class D > 10 (B=common).
VDF letdown = pilot interpreted (chart) airfield approach, not runway.
QGH letdown (ground homing) = controller interpreted (no chart) as radar approach.
under radar control = ATC responsible for separation and terrain avoidance.
radar advisory service = only provided under IFR regardless of meteorological conditions (pilot responsible
for terrain avoidance).
radar information service = may be under VFR/IFR (info on conflicting traffic without avoidance action).
SRA = surveillance radar approach = pilot is given distances from touchdown, advisory altitude or height
information and azimuth instructions (based on 3 glide path).
PAR = precision radar approach = SRA including 3 glide path information + corrections.

- 33 -

Mass and balance

1 M = 3,28 ft / 1 ft = 0,304 M / USG or IG = 8 pints or 4 quarts
1 IG = 1,2 USG / 1 USG = 3,785 L / 1 Kg = 2,2 Lbs
CG is usually in front of CP (centre of pressure).
CG moves forward increases stability, fuel consumpsion and Vs (danger; making rotation and flare
difficult).
CG optimum = near the aft limit.
CG aft of the safe range stability is decreased, aerodynamically unstable and will probably crash.
Vs (stallspeed) is proportional to the square root of the weight.

mass change
change of CG
=
old total mass
dis tan ce from mass to new position
mass : old (new) mass = CG : distance to new (old) CG
MAC = mean aerodynamic cord (CG is often expressed as a percentage of length from leading edge).

disposable load = bruikbare lading.

distribution load intensity = Kg/m2 / floor running load = Kg/inch.
maximum permissible traffic load = MTOM DOM fuel on board

MTOM = maximum take of mass / MZFM = maximum zero fuel mass

MTOM
MTOM
DOM fuel (total) maximum traffic load

MZFM
MZFM
DOM ----maximum traffic load

maximum fuel load in MTOM => fuel = traffic load

maximum fuel load in MLM => fuel = traffic load (+ sector fuel)

- 34 -

MLM
MLM
DOM fuel (div+res) maximum traffic load

Flight planning
transoceanic and polar flights must meet specific MNPS.
MNPS = minimum navigation performance specification.
NAT OTS = north atlantic organised track system.
operating twice during 24 hour period - west bound system 11:30 to 18:00 UTC.
- east bound system 01:00 to 08:00 UTC.
crossing 30W meridian; boundary between Shanwick and Gander oceanic control areas.
NAT westbound tracks begins with A as the most northerly and continue vertically down B, C, D and so
on depending on how many tracks are needed to accommodate the forcast traffic.
east bound tracks begins with Z as the most southerly and continue vertically upward with Y, X,
W..etc.
MNPS separation vertical 4000 ft (same direction) // 2000 ft (opposite direction).
RVSM

reduced vertical separation minima. possible for aircraft suitably equipped and approved
(2000 ft / 1000 ft).

lateral separation = 1 = 60NM.

MSA = minimum sector altitude / minimum safe altitude 1000 ft clearance within 25NM.
NAM = nautical air miles / GNM = ground nautical miles / SAR = specific air range (NAM per unit of fuel).
jet engines are most efficient around 90%.
best range jet = 1,32 x VIMD (indicated minimum drag speed)
SFC = fuel flow : thrust
SAR (jet) = TAS : (SFC x drag)
best SAR (specific air range) is that altitude where 90% rpm gives 1,32 x VIMD without accelerating.
best endurance altitude is above best range.
LRC (long range cruise) = 4% faster than still air best range speed and gives 99% of the range.
cost index in FMS = 00/200 00 = maximum range / 200 = minimum time.
aim to cruise within 2000 ft of the FMS optimum altitude.
optimum altitude increases as fuel burns off.
lower buffet boundary limit = 10% above Vs.
upper buffet boundary limit = onset of mach related buffet (MMO).
ETOPS = extended time operations.
PSR or PNR last point on a route at which it is possible to return to destination with sensible fuel reserves.
time to point of no return =

EH
E = safe endurance / H = groundspeed home / O = GS out
(O + H )

the greatest distance to PNR/PSR is obtained in still air conditions.

- 35 -

ETP (equal time point) or CP (critical point) = for quickest way home determination.
distance to CP =

D H
D = total track distance / H = groundspeed home / O = GS out
(O + H )

for engine failure calculations take the less engine speed in formula!!
ACL = actual cruising level // CPA = closest point of approach.

- 36 -

Human performance and limitations

accidents = 70% human errors.
72 beats/min (mean), adult at rest // 5 l/min of blood is pumped // breathing = approximately 16/min.
blood pressure normal = 100/60, maximum = 160/100.
21% oxygen in air (160 mmHg) // 14,5% oxygen in lungs (100 mmHg)
hyperventilation increase in breathing reduction in CO2 change of acid balance (blood more alkaline)
reduction of artery diameter lack of oxygen.
body unaided can cope with +7 to +8G and -3G (z direction).
Boyle Marriotts law volume of gas varies inversely with its pressure.
Henrys law amount of gas dissolved in a liquid is proportional to the pressure over the liquid.
Daltons law total pressure of a gas is equal to the sum of the partial pressures.
atmosphere 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, 0,9% argon, 0,03% carbon dioxide.
grey out +3G(z) also tunnel vision.
rods = low lights, no colour // cones = sharp colour vision (photopic vision).
6/6 vision = you can see at 6m, what normal people can see at 6m.
- parallax = head movement cause distant objects to move relative to each other.
- perspective = converging parallels such as railway lines.
- relative size = distant objects are smaller.
- relative motion = closer moving objects move faster in angular terms.
- overlapping contours = objects in front of others must be closer.
- aerial perspective = scattering of light make distant objects appear blue.
colour blindness = 7% of all men / 0,1% of all woman.
night vision pupil dilates / chemical within the rods vitamin A helps, probably B and C.
NIHL = noise induced hearing loss / high levels of noise temporarily NIHL
unlikely at levels < 90dB / at 120dB discomfort / at 140dB pain / > 160dB drum maybe ruptured.
prolonged > 90dB can cause permanent damage.
sensory threshold = just noticeable difference (j.n.d.) = difference threshold.
somatographic illusion = pitch to be sensed under acceleration.
somatogyric illusion = the leans, level flight seams banking.
vertigo = spatial disorientation (flicker vertigo is caused by flickering lights).

- 37 -

vibration 1-4 Hz
4-10 Hz
8-12 Hz
10-20 Hz

interference with breathing.

chest and abdominal (buikpijn).
back ache.
head aches, eye strain, pain in throat, speech disturbance and muscular tension.

BMI = body mass index =

weight (kg )
(lenght in M ) 2

5 stages of sleep stage 1, 2, 3, 4 and paradoxical or REM sleep (rapid eye movement).
sleeping cycle = 90 minutes long, 4 to 5 REM stages.
EEG = electroencephalogram = measurement of brain activity.
paradoxic (REM) sleep increases during the night (4 to 5 cycles).
circadian = dagelijkse ritme.
westbound trans oceanic flights are easier to cope with than eastbound (red eye) flights.
the brain can only deal with one decision at a time.
cognitive illusions = misinterpretations of sensory inputs.
70% of the information we process enters via the visual channel.
perception is a highly subjective process.
bottom-up processing uses sensory information to start building a mental model.
top-down processing uses previous knowledge to modify the mental model.
expectancy or perceptual set = to some extend we perceive what we expect to perceive.
visual constancy = process of recognizing familiar objects even in unfamiliar conditions.
the sensory store; iconic memory stores visual information for 0,5 seconds.
ecoic memory stores auditory information for 8 seconds.
working memory;

stores information for 15 30 seconds (= focus of consciousness)

contains the information you are consciously thinking about now.

maximum number of items that can be held in working memory = 7

long term memory; episodic memory (autobiographical memory, what you did on your holiday).
semantic memory (general knowledge, such as the meaning of words).
procedural memory (motor memory) information which cannot be described consciously.
working memory = short term memory 15 30 seconds.
eye should be at the design point throughout the flight.
situational awareness = maintaining an accurate mental model (requires conscious effort to maintain).
multi crew fundamental elements = cooperation and communication.
groupthink = danger of adopting false consensus (eensgezindheid).
homeostasis physiological balance (interplay between the sympathic and parasympatic nervous system).
ANS system = autonomic nervous system (involuntary activities, like heartbeat).

- 38 -

fight or flight reflex part of general adoption syndrome

1. alarm reaction.
2. resistance.
3. exhaustion.

underload = complete absence of stress (undesirable).

stress = a heightened state of arousal caused by stressors in the environment.
stressors = any event or situation that induces stress.
psychosomatic illness = physical illness stemming from psychological causes.
automation complacency = crew tend to become passive monitors of the system and fail to actively question
its performance.

A certain level of arousal is a positive influence on performance. An extremely aroused/anxious pilot will
perform significantly less well than an optimally aroused pilot.
Memory

- 39 -

Decision making

Hierarchie of needs

- 40 -

A person (P+) and goal (G+) oriented person is the ideal pilot.

A stable extrovert person is the ideal pilot.

- 41 -

Radio navigation
high frequencies have short wave lengths.
speed of light = 300000 Km/s = 162000 NM/s
wave length

C
f

(C=speed of light in m/s / f=frequency in Hertz)

max skip distance (NM) =

1,43 H (of ionosphere in Km)

skip distances are increased at night as the ionosphere weakens and refract less.
maximum (theoretical) range (NM) =

1,25 H 1 + 1,25 H 2 (feet)

NDB maximum (theoretical) range = 3 power in watts

VLF = 3 KHz 30 KHz

LF = 30 KHz 300 KHz

MF = 300 kHz 3 MHz

HF = 3 MHz 30 MHz

VHF = 30 MHz 300 MHz

UHF = 300 MHz 3 GHz

SHF = 3 GHz 30 GHz

EHF = 30 GHz 300 GHz

emission classification 3 letter code (ICAO): 1e = waveform, 2e = modulation, 3e = type of information

J3E=HF comm. / A3E=VHF comm. / A8W=ILS / A9W=VOR / PON=DME / NON=NDB carrier wave /
A1A=NDB ident / A2A=alternative NDB ident.
ideal aerial size is half or a quarter of the wave length.
sky waves refract from the ionosphere (breking) caused by a change of speed. ionosphere is more dense in
summer and during the day. sky waves are only reliable in HF band.
ACARS (AC communications addressing and reporting system) = data link between operator and AC (VHF).
AM = amplitude modulation (varying the amplitude), often single side band.
FM = frequency modulation (varying the frequency to ad intelligence. less static interference than AM,
greater power required, complex receiver required.
pulse modulation = digital data or morse.
VHF communication = vertically polarised (vertical aerial, vertical E field).
NAV frequencies = horizontally polarised.
refraction (breking) due to change of speed (low frequencies) hoek.
diffraction (buiging) due to passing sharp objects (low frequencies) bocht.
propagation = voortplanten // ducting = geleiding // attenuation = loss of signal strength of wave.
atmospheric attenuation increases at higher frequencies. significant > 1GHz.
surface attenuation increases at higher frequencies.
ionospheric attenuation increases as frequency decreases.
space waves = line of sight waves.
surface waves caused by diffraction and ground conductivity slowing the wave. are longest at low
frequencies.

- 42 -

sky waves refract from ionosphere only reliable in HF band but present as interference in MF and LF.
D/E/F1/F2 layer winter/day.
E/F layer winter/summer day.
ionosphere is weaker at night (+ summer day more dense than winter day).
atmospheric and surface attenuation = greatest at HF.
ionospheric attenuation = greatest at LF.
surface waves = start to be significant in HF and get longer with lower frequencies.
atmospheric ducting is occasionally present in VHF and higher.
ionospheric ducting is present in VLF only.
static is greatest at low frequencies.
HF is used for long range communications, aviation frequencies: 2,85MHz to 22MHz.
suns up, frequencies up suns down, frequencies down. Night typically half that of day.
VHF is used for short range communications, aviation frequencies: 118MHz to 137MHz.
selcal (selective calling) 4 letter code (each airframe) checked at first contact with new ATC unit.
sitcom 4 satellites at 30000 km orbit stationary to earth.
bearing class A = 2 , class B = 5 , class C = 10 , class D > 10 (B=common).
VDF letdown = pilot interpreted (chart) airfield approach, not runway.
QGH letdown (ground homing) = controller interpreted (no chart) as radar approach.
under radar control = ATC responsible for separation and terrain avoidance.
radar advisory service = only provided under IFR regardless of meteorological conditions (pilot responsible
for terrain avoidance).
radar information service = may be under VFR/IFR (info on conflicting traffic without avoidance action).
SRA = surveillance radar approach = pilot is given distances from touchdown, advisory altitude or height
information and azimuth instructions (based on 3 glide path).
PAR = precision radar approach = SRA including 3 glide path information + corrections.
QUJ
QTE
QDR
QDM

=
=
=
=

true to station.
true from station.
magnetic from station.
magnetic to station.

**PUSH THE HEAD AND PULL THE TAIL** intercepting NDB QDR/QDM.

HF frequency classification
lowest usable HF
Static & Ionospheric
attenuation

maximum usable
frequency
Best combination use
highest frequency that works

- 43 -

optimum frequency
End of skip distance a bit
temperamental

radio spectrum classification

Freq
Wavelength

Space Waves
Sky Waves
Surface
Waves
Ionos Duct
Atmos. Attn
Surface Attn
Ionos Attn
Static
Uses

VLF
Very
3-30K

LF
Low
30-300K
10Km1Km
Kilo

MF
Med
300K3M
1Km100m
Hecto

100km10km
Myria

4000nm

HF
High
3M-30M
100m10m
Deca

1000nm

300nm

100nm

Loran
NDB
190k

NDB
1750k

Comms
2850K22M

VHF
Very
30M300M
10m-1m

UHF
Ultra
300M-3G

SHF
Super
3G-30G

1m-10cm

Metric

Deci

10cm1cm
Centi

Comms
118M137M

Glideslope
GPS
1.5G(L1)C/A+P
1.2G(L2)P
SSR
DME

Radio alt.
4.3G
MLS
ATC/Wx
Radar
9-10G

EHF
Extra
30G300G
1cm1mm
Milli

radio emission classification

X3E (Comms)
J HF SSB Sup Carr
A VHF DSB

AXW
8 ILS
9 VOR

X0N
P DME
N NDB Carrier

AXA
1 NDB Ident
2 Alt NDB Ident

landing categories

category

aircraft minima; DH / RVR

I
II
III A
III B
III C

200 ft on barometric altimeter / RVR > 550 m

100 ft on radio altimeter / RVR 300 m
0 ft on radio altimeter / RVR 200 m
0 ft on radio altimeter / RVR 75 m
0 ft on radio altimeter / RVR 0 m

glidepath height =

glidepath angle
distance (ft) (300 ft/nm)
60

rate of descent (ft/min) GS (NM) x 5 (at 3 glide slope)

glide path in =

...%
x 60
100

system errors FM immune filters reduce localiser interference.

radar bands are UHF, SHF with some EHF. Pulse radar uses a single aerial to both transmit and receive.
continuous wave radar has no minimum range limitation (radio altimeter).
PRP = pulse recurrence period = time it takes to send and receive one pulse.
PRF = pulse repetition frequency = number of pulses per second.
PRP =

1
PRF
- 44 -

low PRF is needed for long range radars. maximum range is controlled by PRF and power.
maximum theoretical range (m) =

C
(C=300.000.000 m/s)
2 PRF

minimum theoretical range (m) =

C pulse length
(C=300.000.000 m/s)
2

beamwidth = 70 x wave length : antenna diameter

airborn weather radar: 9 GHz 10 GHz in the SHF band. conical beam is used for cloud.
cloud height above aircraft (ft) = range (ft) x (scanner tilt beam width) : 60
doppler = self contained on board navigation system that computes GS and drift of the aircraft (old).
loran =

hyperbolic navigation systems show difference of distance or differential distance.

hyperbolic navigation systems need chains of beacons.
loran operates on frequencies around 100 KHz.
ground aerials often > 1300 ft.

GPS = USA // glonass = former soviet union.

GPS 24 satellites, 21 operational and 3 spares - 6 circular orbital planes at 55 to the equator each orbital plane, 3 or 4 satellites at 20200 km, once/12 hours at least 4 satellites will
always be in line of sight mask angle 5 above horizon.
2 frequencies UHF described as L1 and L2. P code (precise//C/A code (coarse acquisition).
L1= C/A + P // L2= P only.
RNP = required navigation performance (maintaining accuracy 95% of the time).
RNP5 = 5 NM, 95% of the time // RNP0,01/15 = 0,01 NM / 15 ft (CAT II approach).
RNAV = area navigation = integrating several different systems.
FMS databases are updated every 28 days.

- 45 -

Principles of flight
IAS (position/instrument error) RAS/CAS (compressibility) EAS (density) TAS.
A x V = constant (A= area / V= speed)
P + ..V2 = constant
Q = ..V2 = dynamic pressure
Q and lift/drag are proportional to EAS2 // EAS is slightly less than IAS.
EAS = TAS only at ISA mean sea level density.
EAS =

relative density x TAS (example: relative density = at 40000 ft)

work done = force x distance // power required = force x speed

airflow streamline flow vortex flow disturbed flow.
stagnation point pressure equals total head pressure // RAF = relative air flow.
Lift = CL. ..V2.S // CL = lift coefficient
swept wings give less lift at high angles of attack.
positive pressures do not occur on the lower airfoil surface until alphas of 12 - 15.
CP on a cambered airfoil moves. on a symmetrical airfoil it remains near 20% - 25% MAC.
turbulent boundary layer is thick (20x laminair layer), draggy and high energy. laminair boundary layer is thin
slippery and low energy.
profile drag = zero lift drag = parasite drag (skin friction / form drag / interference drag).
induced drag = lift depending drag or lift induced drag (vortex drag).
total drag = CD. ..V2.S // CD = drag coefficient
from 1 to 2 G means drag goes up by a factor of 4.
best ratio of EAS over drag = 1,32 x VIMD (best range speed for jet aircraft)
VIMP = minimum fuel consumption (prop AC).
VIMD

= minimum fuel consumption (jet AC).

= best angle in prop AC.

speed unstable regime =< VIMD (drag rises as speed falls).

V1 = decision speed (is chosen for best scheduled field performance).
V2 < VIMD and is in the speed unstable regime.
VX (jet) = VIMD // VX (prop) = Vminimum control (= 1,1 x Vstall) // power = TAS x (thrust or drag)
VY EAS decreases with height / service ceiling jet < 500 ft/min, propeller < 100 ft/min.
stalling speed in manoeuvre increases by the square root of the load factor. load factors increase rapidly from
30 up.

- 46 -

load factor = VStall increasing factor. less weight will give you better turn performance. turn radius is
greater at height. maximum rate speed is higher than minimum radius speed.
radius of turn (NM) =

TAS
rate.x.60.

angle of bank in rate 1 turn =

radius of turn (m) =

TAS
+ 7 (approximation)
10

V 2 (m / s )
10 tan bankangle

washout = progressive reduction of wing incidence to the tip.

boundary layer control = uses vortex generators (sucking or blowing at the tip to keep the boundary layer
attached to a higher alpha).
differential ailerons = upgoing at greater angle than downgoing aileron.
frise ailerons = nose of the aileron sticks down below the wing when the aileron deflects upwards.
equalising drag.
for any given EAS aerodynamic damping decreases as height increases.
static stability describes the first response of the AC of being displaced in attitude or speed.
dynamic stability describes what happens after that, in the long term.
longitudinal dihedral = difference in incidence between wing and tail.
stick free stability is always worse than stick fixed.
speed of sound (kt) = 38,94

T (Kelvin)

LSS = 661 kt (at sea level at ISA temp.= 288 k)

LSS = 573 kt (ISA tropopause temp.= 216,5 k)
mach no. (M) =

TAS (kt )
(M is ratio and has no units)
LSS (kt )

MFS = free stream mach no. // ML = local mach no.

mach wave at Mach 1.0 , individual pressure waves pile up into a single pressure wave just ahead of the
aircraft. mach waves that form near the aircraft, on wings and other parts of the structure, are more intense
and are called shockwaves.
Mdet = detachment mach no. (Mfree stream at which the shockwaves attaches!?)
transonic regime (from Mcritical to Mdetached) aircraft flies subsonic at high mach nos. some local flows
become supersonic.
M 0,89 range where lift changes abruptly with changes in flow.
M 0,89 to M 0,98 range where CP moves aft.
M 1,4 (=Mdet) CL is down to 70% of its low speed value as there is no up wash ahead of the leading edge
and there is an energy loss through the bow shockwave. CP is at about 50% MAC.
transonic flight CL is rising in the subsonic regime; increasing Reynolds number/effect of compressibility/
change in upwash.
MCDR = mach critical drag rise.

- 47 -

propeller slip = difference between geometric pitch and effective pitch.

CSU = constant speed unit (if rpm falls, CSU moves to finer pitch, if rises to coarser pitch)
CSU will select (at constant power): coarse pitch at high speed and fine pitch at low speed.
full propeller operating range feather stop (+85) feathering flight coarse pitch stop (+50)
flight range flight fine pitch stop (+14) taxi ground fine pitch stop (-1) reverse reverse pitch stop (-15).
alpha range = flight range between flight fine and flight coarse pitch stop.
beta range = (for ground manoeuvring) direct adjustment of propeller pitch.
FI = fatique index (100 = fatique life has been used up). increasing aircraft AUM by 1% can increase fatique
life consumption by 5%.
n (load factor) =

1
cos bankangle

speed diagram (with increasing altitude)

E

E = EAS
R = RAS / CAS
T = TAS
M = mach number
RAS/CAS is derived from rho V2

speed

- 48 -

Aviation law
light signals
Green
Red
Flashing Red
Flashing White
Flashing Green
Red pyrotechnic

to an a/c on the ground

Go (cleared take off)
Stop
Get clear of landing area.
Go to start
Cleared to taxi

to an a/c in the air

Go (cleared to land)
Stop (ie circle and give way)
Stay clear of landing area (ie do not land)
Go to start (ie land here but await signals)
Come back and await signals
Belay previous instructions - do not land for the moment.

ICAO annexes
annex
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18

subject
Personnel Licensing (Getting a license is my Number 1 priority)
Rules of the Air (2 Sets of Rules, VFR and IFR)
Meteorological Services (3C/1000ft DALR)
Aeronautical Charts (4 Cardinal Points)
Dimensional Units (CRP 5)
Operation of Aircraft (DC6)
Nationality and Registration Marks (The League of Seven Nations)
Airworthiness (Looks like a propeller)
Facilitation (NEIN in German Immigration)
Aeronautical Communications (100 for the Operator)
Air Traffic Control Services (1 to 1 Personal Services)
Search & Rescue (The one before Accident Investigation)
Accident Investigation (Unlucky for some)
Aerodromes (14 Aerodromes around Heathrow)
Aeronautical Information Services (Looks like IS)
Environmental Protection (16 Age of Consent, use protection)
Security (17ft security fence required)
Dangerous Goods (At 18 you can drink but its DANGEROUS to drive)

holding speeds
normal
170kts (A&B)/230kts
240kts
265kts

FL140
FL200
FL340

turbulent
170kts (A&B)/280kts
280kts
280kts

intenational conventions

Subject
Withdrawal

Warsaw
(1926)
Liability

Tokyo (1963)
Hague (1970)
Hijacking/ Jurisdiction
Inform ICAO

- 49 -

Montreal
(1971)
Non-Hijacking
6 Months
notice to
contracting
states

Rome
(1933/38/52)
Ground Damage

separation
type
Vertical

description
During ascent or descent 15 mins whilst vertical separation does not exist, down
to 10 where navaids permit, or 5minutes if less than 10 minutes of an actual
timed position report.
VOR/RNAV 15 more than 15nm from facility.
NDB
30 more than 15nm from facility.
DR
45 more than 15nm from intersect
DME (On track) 20nm or 10nm where front a/c is 20kt+ faster. Also 10nm
when climbing or descending through level.
Timing - 15mins, down to 10mins if navaids permit, down to 5 mins if front a/c
is +20kts, to 3mins if +40kts.
Mach number 10-5mins. Each minute less than 10 requires an additional .01M
from leading a/c starting at 0.02M up to 0.06M.RNAV 80nm.

Lateral

Longitudinal

RNP RNAV 80nm (RNP 20) verified every hour, 50nm (RNP 50) verified every
hour. Otherwise 80nm when same on-track waypoint.

Wake Turbulence
2mins UNLESS
Departure

Radar Separation 5nm standard, 3nm when conditions allow (UK 40nm
from radar head) and 2.5nm on localiser/approach (5nm on localiser for wake
turbulence).
Departure Lighter AND from intermediate part of runway (3min)
Arrival LIGHT behind heavier (3min), 4/5/6 & 5nm
1, 2, 5mins. 1 if tracks diverge by 45 or more. On same track, 2 if speed
difference of 40kts, 5 otherwise. <1 minute if taking off in different directions. 5
mins max between departing and arriving traffic

supplemental oxygen requirements

Pressurised
Flight Deck
Cabin Crew
10% Pax
30% Pax
100% Pax
Unpressurised
Flight Deck
Cabin Crew
10% Pax
100% Pax

over 10,000ft

over 13,000ft

After 30 mins
After 30 mins
After 30 mins

Entire time
Entire time

over 14,000ft

over 15,000ft

minimum
25kft >25kft
30min
2hr
30 min

Entire time

10 min

Entire time

Entire time
After 30 mins
After 30 mins

Entire time
Entire time

safety equipment requirements

pax seats
7-30
31-60
61-200
201-300
301-400
401-500
501-600
>601

fire extinguishers (of

which BCF)
1
2 (1)
3 (2)
4 (2)
5 (2)
6 (2)
7 (2)
8 (2)
Plus 1 BCF in Cockpit

crash axe

megaphone
/deck

first aid kits

1
1+1100
2

- 50 -

<100
<200
<300
<400

1
2
3
4

reporting requirements
subject
Unlawful Interference
Nav Irregularity/Met eg. VA, Radiation
Accident
Emergency which endangers safety & thereby
violates local regs or procs
Flight Incidents which (may) endanger safe ops
Technical defects and excess of tech limitations
Air Traffic Incidents endangerment by other flying
device/ATC etc.
Birdstrike

reporting
ASAP
ASAP
Quickest available means
Local authority without delay, if required by state to
appropriate authority then to state of origin in writing
within 10 days.
Authority within 72 hours
Recorded in tech log
ICAO PANS RAC
ASAP ATC

licensing requirements
ATPL (21-59)
500 MPA
Transport
Category a/c
CPL (185yrs
PPL (17IR (A)
for C/PPL

total hours
1500
100 sim
25 Proc trainer

PIC hours
250 PIC/P1s
100 PIC

150

XC hours
200
100 PIC/P1s

night hours
100 PIC/P2

Instr. hours
75
30 ground

20
300nm flight

5
5 FSTOL as PIC

10
5 Ground

50 PIC
10 in Airplanes

SARPs = standards and recommended practises.

PANS = procedures for air navigation services.
JAR 23 and 25 covers the regulations applying to small and large aircraft respectively.
ICAO assembly is convened once every 3 years. they appoint the counsil for a 3 year term (permanent body
composed of 33 contracting states).
ATS comprises 3 services;
4. air traffic services; Area Control Service / Approach Control Service / Aerodrome Control Service
5. Flight Information Service
6. Allerting Service
controlled airspace;
Class A: most airways, important control zones and control areas (IFR only).
Class B: upper airspace IFR and VFR permitted (controlled).
Class C: IFR + VFR (controlled) IFR is separated from IFR and VFR, VFR is separated from IFR and receive
traffic information about other VFR.
Class D: IFR + VFR (controlled) IFR is separated from IFR and receive traffic information in respect of VFR
flights. VFR receive traffic information on all other flights.
Class E: IFR + VFR permitted; IFR with air traffic control service and are separated from other IFR. All flights
receive traffic information as far as practicable (no control zones).
Class F: IFR + VFR permitted; IFR flights receive air traffic advisory service and all flights receive flight
information service if requested.
Class G: IFR + VFR permitted and receive flight information service if requested.
air traffic control service: IFR A, B, C, D and E / VFR B, C and D + all aerodrome traffic at controlled
aerodromes.
aerodrome reference codes (first element);
1=< 800M / 2=800-1200M / 3=1200-1800M / 4=>1800M

- 51 -

width of runways = 18 45M (precision approach runway not less than 30M at 1 or 2 type).
braking action: 0,4=good(5) / 0,39-0,36=medium to good(4) / 0,35-0,3=medium(3) /
0,29-0,26=medium to poor(2) / <0,25=poor(1)
AIRAC = aeronautical information regulation and control (part1 and 2).
AIC = aeronautical information circulars. issued monthly, contain information not suitable for AIP/NOTAM.
MSA = 1000 ft clearance within 25NM (mountainous areas 2000ft).
speed categories are calculated as 1,3 x stall speed in landing configuration.
A= < 91kt / B= 91-121kt / C=121-141kt / D=141-166kt / E=166-211kt
approach segment arrival / initial / intermediate / final / missed approach.
arival ends at IAF.
procedures are used to direct the aircraft. 45/180 procedure turn // 80/260 procedure turn // base turns
// race track procedure.
initial IAF to IF (intermediate fix).
intermediate obstacle clearance reduces from 1000ft to 500ft in the primary area.
final approach begins at FAF and ends at MAPt (missed approach point).
missed approach must be initiated if the visual references are not obtained by the time the aircraft reaches
the MAPt.
a circling approach is a visual manoeuvre.
all turns in holding procedures are calculated for angle of bank of 25 or 3/s (=rate 1).
if not specified, right turns.

- 52 -

- 53 -

- 54 -

parallel entry

direct entry
offset entry

5 zone flexibility either side of the boundaries

- 55 -

- 56 -

Operational procedures
recency is 3 take offs and landings in the last 90 days.
flight preparation documents are kept for 3 months.
RVR is always better than meteorological visibility.
CAT I
CAT II
CAT III B

RVR=550 M
RVR=300 M
RVR=75 M

/ DH=200 ft (barometric altimeter)

/ DH=100 ft (radio altimeter)
/ DH<50 ft (radio altimeter)

jets must be able to land in 60% and turboprops in 70% of the LDA.
contaminated runway = > 25% of surface area is covered by;
>3mm of water or equivalent deep slush/snow.
compressed snow to solid mass.
ice incl. wet ice.
runway is considered wet < 3mm water without significant areas of standing water.
wet runways need an additional 115% factor.
class B aircraft must be able to land in 70% of LDA, slope is taken into account.
net performance is worse than gross (Gross= 50:50 chance of better/worse).
NAT-OTS

eastbound Z-A, bottom to top (red eye) 01:00 to 08:00 hours

westbound A-Z, top to bottom
11:30 to 18:00 hours

heavy>136000kg / medium= 7000kg 136000kg / light<7000kg

- 57 -

Performance
gross performance is the estimated fleet average.
class A aircraft all jets and turboprops with more than 9 pax. seats or MTOM >5700kg (B-737). JAR 25
class B aircraft small prop. driven aircraft, piston or turbo with < 9 pax. seats and MTOM <5700kg. JAR 23
class C aircraft large piston aircraft > 9 pax. seats or MTOM > 5700kg (not many still flying commercially).
jet thrust reduces with altitude. on hot days jet thrust reduces with temperature.
most jet engines are flat rated below ISA +15, and at low temperatures, thrust does not vary with temp.
most jets indicate thrust with EPR, B-737 uses rpm of the first stage fan (N1).
thrust power power = thrust x speed
propeller thrust reduces with forward speed.
VIMD = where profile drag = induced drag alpha = constant = 4.
TODA = TORA + clearway. Some runways have an overrun called stopway.
ASDA = EDA (emergency distance available) = TORA + stopway.
balanced field : TODA = ASDA.
max. TODA = 1,5 x TORA (JAR OPS).
IAS (position/instrument error) RAS/CAS (compressibility) EAS (density) TAS.
screen height at the end of the runway is 15, 35 or 50ft heigh.
jet engine thrust reduces initially with speed because of intake momentum drag, but picks up as the ram
effect builds up and assists mass flow.
VR > 1,05 VMCA (one engine out). VMC is highest where the air is cold and dense (asymmetric thrust is
greatest).
a range of decision speeds exist at weights below the OEI field length limited TOM.
the engine out take off calculation uses gross, 50:50, performance.
wet runways have VEF 10kt lower and a 15ft screen height.
V2 = safety speed = target speed to be attained at the screen height (35ft/15ft) with OEI.
all engines case the margin between net and gross = 1,15 (JAR 25), net being the greater of them.
V3 = all engines speed at the screen (between V2 and V4).
VX on a jet is close to VIMD (on piston aircraft close to stalling speed).
VX is unchanged with altitude.
V4 = all engine initial climb speed (V2 + 10kt).
best range on a jet is 1,32 VIMD / Best range on prop AC is VIMD.
LRC (long range cruise) is 4% faster than still air best range speed and gives 99% of the range.

- 58 -

class A jets must land in 60% of LDA, Turbo props and class B in 70%.
LDA x 60% = Gross LDR.
class B (multi) aircraft need to clear obstacles by 50ft using net performance (net=0,77xgross).
class A aircraft need to clear obstacles by 35ft using net performance, 50ft in a turn.
(net=grossx0,8-twin // or 0,9-3 engines // or 1,0-4 engines).
the NTOFP (net take of flight path) ends at 1500ft.
increased V2 procedure can improve MTOM when WAT limited but not field length limited.
increased V2 procedure can improve climb gradients when obstacle limited but not field length limited.
reduced thrust take of = assumed temperature procedure = variable thrust procedure.
hydroplaning speed (kt) = 9
braking coefficient
0,4 >
0,39 0,36
0,35 0,30
0,29 0,26
0,25 <
climb gradient =

P( psi ) (bar x 14,5 = psi).

braking action
good
medium to good
medium
medium to poor
poor

rate of c lim b 6000

TAS 6080

PMC = performance management control.

- 59 -

snowtam
5
4
3
2
1

Aircraft General Knowledge

F = force (lbs) / A = area (sq in in2) / P = pressure (psi) bar x 14,5 = psi
P=

F
A

V = I x R // P = I2 x R // P = V x I
hydroplaning speed (kt) = 9

P( psi ) (bar x 14,5 = psi).

RMS (root mean square) voltage = 0,707 x peak voltage

F (Hz) = rpm x pole pairs x 60
typical 3 phase aircraft AC supply = 115 V (RMS) / 400Hz.
TRU = transformer rectifier unit 115V AC to 28V DC.
alternators are STAR wound and can produce 2 voltages.
CIVIL = in Capaciters the current I leads the Voltage which leads the current I in inductors L.
J3E = HF comms // A3E = VHF comms // A8W = ILS // A9W = VOR // PON = DME
NON = NDB carrier wave // A1A = NDB ident // A2A = alternative NDB ident
sky waves refract from the ionosphere // space waves are line of sight waves.
force = mass x acceleration // momentum = mass x velocity // work = force x distance
power =

work
time

the ratio of air to fuel which ensures complete combustion = 15:1 by weight.
manifold pressure is absolute pressure / boost pressure is relative to ISA pressure at sea level.

- 60 -