CHAPTER 5. Information Systems

Identifying the Missed Approach Point

The moving map display is an especially useful aid for recognizing arrival at various points, including the missed approach point during an instrument approach. The moving map display complements the distance readout on the PFD/ MFD/FMS. Figure 5-4 shows two indications of an aircraft arriving at a missed approach point. The position of the aircraft on the moving map is very clear, and the range setting has been used to provide a more detailed view of the missed approach waypoint.

CAUTION: Some units can be set to change ranges automatically. In some instances, this can lead to a loss of situational awareness as you forget or miss a scale change. This can lead to sudden pilot realization at some point that the aircraft is too high, too far, or moving too fast. Manual switching (pilot selection) of the range display ensures that you are constantly aware of the distances and closure rates to points.

Catching Errors: Using the Moving Map to Detect Route Programming Errors

Moving maps are particularly useful for catching errors made while entering modifications to the programmed route during flight. Misspelled waypoints are often difficult to detect among a list of waypoints. The moving map in Figure 5-5 shows a route containing a misspelled waypoint. It is easy to detect the mistake when the information is shown pictorially. For this reason, a display such as a moving map is sometimes referred to as an error-evident display. The PFD selected track indicates incorrect settings. Always be ready and able to fly the aircraft according to any air traffic control (ATC) clearance or instructions. Disengaging all automation and then reestablishing heading, track, and altitude control is the pilot’s first priority at all times. Then, when the aircraft is on an assigned track at a safe altitude, pilot time can be expended to reprogram as necessary.

Catching Errors: Using The Moving Map To Detect Configuration Errors

Moving maps can help you discover errors made in programming the FMS/RNAV and PFD. The moving map display shown in Figure 5-6 removes the depiction of the leg to the active waypoint when the FMS/RNAV is engaged in the nonsequencing mode. This feature provides an easy way to detect the common error of forgetting to set the computer back to the sequencing mode.

The moving map shown in Figure 5-7 allows you to discover a more serious programming error quickly. In this situation, the pilot is attempting an RNAV approach. However, the course deviation indicator (CDI) has erroneously been set to display very high frequency (VHF) omnidirectional range (VOR) course indications. The CDI suggests that the aircraft is well to the west of course. The moving map display shows the true situation—the aircraft is on the RNAV approach course, but is about to depart it.

 
 
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