Noob question - When to start descending?

[TSC.]

Hi all, noob time,

Well after installing FS Passengers I have spent more time flying busses like the 737 - but I usually fly low VFR when I use the sim. So I have some trouble knowing when to start my descent into an airport. Usually I end up too low too soon & wind up doing the last 10 or so NM at 4000ft  ;D

Is there any easy to use calculation that lets you know when you should start descending?

Say I'm blatting along at 250KIAS & 25,000ft, at what distance should you start your descent?

Cheers,

TSC.

[microlight]

Hey, TSC!

There's a descent calculator gauge in the downloads section here (I think) called vscalc2.zip. It's designed for FS2002 but works fine in FS9.

Another easy way to remember is that you normally start descent in flight level/3=miles, so if you're at FL330, you start descent at about 1800 fpm at 110 miles. The calculator will do away with all that, though!

[TSC.]

Thanks microlight. I'll have a look for that calculator - I thought it was something to do with 3's but I could never remember what.

Cheers,

TSC.

[t_alexander21]

Get the PSS Airbus and click a button...it'll do it for you  ;)

[beefhole]

Your FL/3

ex.-FL 360/3=120nm

Start an -1800 fpm descent at about 120 nm from your destination. Or-

FILE IFR!

[gw]

beefhole nailed it there.  I judge my descent rate by using the formula the other way -- by multiplying my distance by 3.

If I am 80 miles from touchdown I should be at 24,000 ft.  When I'm 50 miles out I should be down to 15,000, etc.

gw

[microlight]

Good point, Graham - I never thought of applying it that way round. I've always used 10,000 feet at 30 miles out as a general rule.

[Felix/FFDS]

TSC - the answer's easy - before you run out of fuel?