Descent Calculator
A quick "Rule of Thumb" tool for descent planning.
Flight Data
Start Descent In:
0 NM
Vertical Speed:
-0 fpm
* Based on the 3:1 Descent Rule. For flight simulation use only.
Definitions
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Current Altitude: (feet)
- The altitude you are currently flying at, measured in feet above Mean Sea Level (MSL).
- The altitude you are currently flying at, measured in feet above Mean Sea Level (MSL).
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Target Altitude (feet)
- The altitude you want to be at when you enter the traffic pattern, usually given as MSL altitude.
- The altitude you want to be at when you enter the traffic pattern, usually given as MSL altitude.
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Ground Speed (knots)
- Your aircraft's speed across the ground, measured in knots. This is different from the airspeed shown on your gauge because it accounts for wind. You can usually find this on your GPS or flight display.
- Your aircraft's speed across the ground, measured in knots. This is different from the airspeed shown on your gauge because it accounts for wind. You can usually find this on your GPS or flight display.
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Descent Rate (feet per minute)
- The rate at which you want to descend, measured in feet per minute (fpm). A standard descent rate for many aircraft is often around 500 to 1,000 fpm, but this varies by aircraft type.
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Distance to Descend (nautical miles)
- The calculated distance required to descend from your current altitude to your target altitude based on your ground speed and descent rate.
- The calculated distance required to descend from your current altitude to your target altitude based on your ground speed and descent rate.
Get more definitions from our Aviation Acronym Glossary