Airbus Raw Data ILS

From PMDG Ops

Using the Flight Path Angle ("Bird") as an aide when hand flying an ILS approach

In preparation for the arrival of the PMDG Airbus I thought it worthwhile to start what I hope will be a series of articles on flying these aircraft. I will focus primarily on the systems that ease pilot workload and which in my opinion make flying the Airbus so absorbing.

Hand flying or using (Raw data), as it is termed, during any complex phase of flight can be extremely challenging. One of the most difficult of procedures when hand flying is the low vis ILS approach, particularly with a cross wind. Here you'll find a brief article on how your task can be made a little easier using the FPA or "Bird" for additional guidance.

For the purpose of this article the discussion is limited to the use of the FPA during the approach using Airbus Aircraft systems. It is assumed that you are familiar with your particular Aircrafts speed/flap and configuration requirements as these are not discussed.

Intermediate Approach

The TRK index will be set to the ILS course and, once established on the LOC, the center of the Bird should be coincident with the TRK index. This method allows accurate LOC tracking taking into account the drift.

Should the LOC deviate, you should fly the Bird in the direction of the LOC index, and when re-established on the LOC, set the center of the FPV on the TRK index again.

Final Approach

When 1/2 dot below the G/S, you should initiate the interception of the G/S by smoothly flying the Bird down to the glide path angle. The Bird almost sitting on the -5° pitch scale on PFD, provides a -3° flight path angle. Should the G/S deviate, you should make small corrections in the direction of the deviation and when re-established on the G/S, reset the Bird to the G/S angle.

The images below depict a crosswind from the right 020/30kts With the Aircraft track (not heading!)aligned with the Runway heading of 033 Degs. Remember you are effectively flying the BIRD not the Aircraft onto the runway heading. Where the BIRD goes your aircraft will follow....Hopefully !!

---David Miles--- Airbus