Radar Vectors - P-5530080

JOINT ADVANCED MULTI-ENGINE T-44A

When to Descend. ATC requirements probably have more influence over when to begin the descent than

any other single factor. Other items to consider before starting an enroute descent are range, desired

descent rate, weather, terrain, and low altitude fuel consumption. For planning purposes, various

techniques are acceptable to determine the point at which descent is desired. A simple technique is to use

three times the altitude to lose in thousands of feet as the distance from destination in nautical miles to

begin descent (3 X altitude to lose = miles). Another rule of thumb is [2 X (altitude to lose)]+10=miles.

Other techniques compare a desired rate of descent to altitude to lose to determine the time; time and

groundspeed then gives distance. Ensure you use a descent gradient/descent rate appropriate to the

technique you are using (reference 60-to-1 rules in section 412). In other words, know what pitch to use

and VSI to hold during the descent so that you arrive at your target altitude at the desired point over the

ground. The big picture is the closer you get, the more descent rate is required, and any technique used to

plan your enroute descent will improve your situational awareness.

C. Radar Vectors.

The use of radar vectors is the simplest and most convenient way to position an aircraft for an approach.

Using radar, air traffic controllers can position an aircraft at almost any desired point, provide obstacle

clearance by the use of minimum vectoring altitudes, and ensure traffic separation. This flexibility allows an

aircraft to be vectored to any segment of a published routing shown on the IAP or to a radar final. Radar

controllers use minimum vectoring altitude (MVA) charts providing minimum altitudes of 1000 or 2000 feet in

designated mountainous areas; MVAs may be lower than non-radar MEAs/MOCAs. They may also be below

emergency safe or minimum sector altitudes. However, while being radar vectored, IFR altitude assignments

will be at or above MVA. While being radar vectored, repeat all headings, altitudes (departing and assigned),

and altimeter settings; and comply with controller instructions.

Descent. If at any time there is doubt as to whether adequate obstacle clearance is provided or controller

instructions are unclear, query the controller. The controller should inform you if radar contact is lost and

provide you with a new clearance or additional instructions. If advised radar contact is lost while in IFR

conditions and there is a delay in receiving new instructions, ask the controller for a new clearance or advise

the controller of your intentions. (This is particularly important if below minimum safe, sector, or emergency

safe altitude.)

Vectors for Approach. The controller may vector the aircraft to any segment of an IAP prior to the FAF

and clear an aircraft for an approach from that point. Normally maintain 150 KIAS while being radar

vectored, although 170 KIAS or other airspeeds may be flown at the pilot's discretion or as directed by

ATC. The controller will issue an approach clearance only after you are established on a segment of the

IAP; or you will be assigned an altitude to maintain until you are established on a segment of the IAP.

Orientation. Remain oriented in relation to the FAF by using all available navigation aids. Have the IAP

available for the approach to be flown along with a backup procedure to be used if available. Complete the

Approach Checklist and be prepared to fly the approach when cleared by the controller. Once cleared for

the approach, maintain the last assigned altitude and heading until established on a segment of a published

route or IAP. Use normal lead points to roll out on course. From that point, comply with all course and

altitude restrictions as depicted on the approach procedure except you must not climb above the last

assigned altitude to comply with published altitude restrictions unless so instructed by the controlling

agency. Configure, slow, and complete the Landing Checklist prior to the FAF.

D. Low Altitude Procedures.

Terminal routings. Terminal routings from enroute or feeder facilities are considered segments of the IAP

and normally provide a course, range in nautical miles (not DME), and minimum altitude to the IAF. The

altitudes published on terminal routings are minimum altitudes and provide the same protection as an

airway MEA. Terminal routings may take the aircraft to a point other than the IAF if it is operationally

advantageous to do so.

Before the IAF. A low altitude IAF is any fix labeled as an IAF or any procedure turn/holding-in-lieu-of a

procedure turn fix. Before reaching the IAF, recheck the weather (if appropriate), review/brief the IAP,

obtain clearance for the approach, and complete the Approach Checklist. Normally cross the IAF at

150 KIAS and maintain this for the initial and intermediate segments of the approach, although 170 KIAS

or other airspeeds may be flown for extended arcs/segments at the pilot's discretion or as directed by ATC.

RADIO INSTRUMENTS STAGE

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