FlyByWire A32nx Beginner Tutorial | Episode 3 | Descent, Approach and Landing

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the descent, approach, and landing phases using the FlyByWire A32nx in Microsoft Flight Simulator. Building on previous episodes, we will focus on setting up your approach to Dusseldorf Airport from Manchester, navigating through a standard terminal arrival (STAR), and executing an ILS approach.

Step 1: Setting Up the Approach

1. Enter Destination Data in the MCDU

   • Access the MCDU (Multi-Function Control Display Unit).
   • Select the flight plan and set your destination as Dusseldorf (EDDL).
   • Input the arrival route:
     • Choose ILS runway 05R.
     • Select the PSAP1 X-ray arrival via the waypoint PSAP.
   • Insert the data into the MCDU.

2. Confirm Top of Descent

   • Check the primary flight display for the top of descent (TOD) marker, which indicates when to start descending.

3. Review the Arrival Chart

   • Use Navigraph to pull up the PSAP1 X-ray arrival chart.
   • Understand your route from PSAP to the initial approach fix (IAF) at Ronald.

Step 2: Preparing for Descent

1. Fill in Performance Data

   • Go to the performance section in the MCDU and input:
     • QNH: 1017
     • Temperature: 26 degrees Celsius
     • Transition altitude: 5000 feet
     • Minimums: 221 feet
     • Approach speed: 129 knots
     • Landing speed: 124 knots

2. Set Altitude for Descent

   • If flying online, follow ATC instructions for your descent.
   • Otherwise, manually set the altitude window to 10,000 feet for a managed descent.

3. Begin Descent

   • Initiate your descent from flight level 330 down to 10,000 feet.
   • Monitor speed and descent rate, adjusting as necessary.

Step 3: Briefing the Approach

1. Understand the Approach Procedure

   • Review the ILS runway 05R chart.
   • Initial approach fix is Ronald, with a heading of 216 degrees to the Mark Hotel Victor VOR.
   • Prepare for a left turn to a final approach course of 052 degrees at 3,000 feet.

2. Set Up Navigation Aids

   • Ensure the localizer frequency is set to 110.15 on the radio navigation page.

3. Monitor Descent and Approach

   • As you descend through 10,000 feet to 4,000 feet and then to 3,000 feet, check for altitude restrictions and adjust your speed accordingly.

Step 4: Executing the Landing

1. Configure Aircraft for Landing

   • At 3,000 feet, activate the approach phase in the MCDU.
   • Set flaps incrementally as you descend:
     • Flaps 1, then Flaps 2, and so forth until full flaps for landing.

2. Final Preparations

   • Turn on the landing system and ensure the landing gear is down.
   • Complete the landing checklist:
     • Set minimums.
     • Arm spoilers and configure auto-brake settings.

3. Final Approach and Landing

   • Capture the localizer and glideslope.
   • Monitor altitude and speed closely as you approach the runway.
   • Execute landing procedures as you cross the runway threshold.

Conclusion

You have now successfully completed the descent, approach, and landing phases in the FlyByWire A32nx. Remember to review your approach checklist and adjust configurations based on real-time conditions. For the next steps, prepare for taxiing and shutdown procedures in the following episode of the tutorial series. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out for assistance. Enjoy your flying experience!