The subject of flight planning and monitoring provides the basic knowledge and techniques that pilots need to plan and carry out flights safely, efficiently and in accordance with regulations. This subject covers numerous aspects, including the planning of VFR and IFR flights and in-flight monitoring. Some of the key topics are presented below as examples. Full and detailed coverage is provided as part of the theory training.
VFR flight planning
Planning a flight according to Visual Flight Rules (VFR) requires the consideration of numerous factors in order to ensure a safe and smooth flight. The central topics of VFR flight planning include
1. route preparation
Route preparation is the first and most important step in flight planning.
- Route selection:
- Identification of suitable routes, taking into account airspace structures, restricted areas, altitude restrictions and environmental constraints.
- Use of maps such as the ICAO 1:500,000 map for planning visually identifiable waypoints and navigation aids.
- Weather conditions:
- Analysing current weather reports (METAR) and weather forecasts (TAF).
- Assessment of potential hazards such as thunderstorms, strong winds, low cloud bases and fog.
- Planning of alternative routes in unfavourable conditions.
- Inclusion of legal requirements:
- Consideration of visibility and cloud clearance rules for VFR flights in different airspace classes.
2. preparation of the flight execution plan
A structured flight execution plan is essential in order to carry out the flight safely and efficiently.
- Navigation points:
- Selection of prominent waypoints such as towns, lakes, roads or navigation aids.
- Calculation of courses, distances and times for each route.
- Times:
- Calculation of the total flight time and the time between the navigation points.
- Adjustment of times based on wind direction and speed.
- Consideration of emergency planning:
- Definition of emergency landing areas along the route.
3. planning of climb and descent flights
- Climbing flight:
- Determination of the optimum climb rate and speed to reach the planned flight altitude efficiently.
- Consideration of obstacles and airspace structure.
- Descent:
- Calculation of the ideal descent rate and the time for the start of the descent.
- Ensuring a controlled and continuous approach to the destination.
4. fuel calculation
- Total consumption:
- Calculation of fuel consumption based on flight duration and engine power setting.
- Reserves:
- Planning of legally prescribed fuel reserves as well as additional reserves for unforeseen events such as detours or holding patterns.
IFR flight planning
Planning a flight according to Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) is considerably more complex and requires the use of specialised navigation charts and the consideration of numerous additional factors.
1. navigation charts
Navigation charts are an indispensable tool for IFR flight planning. There are different types of charts, each of which provides different information:
- Enroute Charts:
- Display airways, waypoints, navigation aids (e.g. VOR, NDB) and minimum altitudes.
- Area Charts:
- Detailed visualisations of specific airspace areas, e.g. airport environments or control zones.
- SID and STAR Charts:
- Standard Instrument Departure (SID): Specifications for standardised departure procedures.
- Standard Terminal Arrival Route (STAR): Procedure for approaching a terminal area.
- Approach Charts:
- Detailed information for the execution of approaches, e.g. ILS, VOR or RNAV approach procedures.
2. route preparation
- Flight route:
- Selection of the optimum route based on ATC clearances, airways and navigation aids.
- Use of flight planning software to optimise the route.
- Height planning:
- Determination of suitable cruising altitudes based on wind, weather and airspace structure.
- Consideration of minimum heights to avoid obstacles.
3. preparation of the flight execution plan
- Calculation of the flight time:
- Consideration of wind components, speed and distance.
- Fuel calculation:
- Including taxi, travel and reserve fuel as well as additional fuel for unexpected circumstances.
- Weight and Balance:
- Ensure that the aircraft remains within the permissible weight and centre of gravity limits.
4. special features of IFR planning
- Weather analysis:
- Use of specialised weather reports (SIGMET, AIRMET) to identify potential hazards such as turbulence or icing.
- Alternative airports:
- Planning alternative options in the event of emergencies or deteriorating weather conditions.
- ATC clearances:
- Obtaining the necessary clearances before take-off and during the flight.
Importance of flight planning and monitoring
A sound understanding of flight planning is essential for every pilot, especially in IFR operations. Planning lays the foundation for a safe and efficient flight and helps to minimise potential risks before take-off. The content described here is only part of the comprehensive knowledge that pilots are taught in this subject. During theory training, all relevant aspects are covered in detail to ensure that pilots are prepared for all possible scenarios.
Conclusion
The subject of flight planning and monitoring provides the necessary knowledge to plan and carry out flights safely and efficiently under both VFR and IFR conditions. The combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application ensures that pilots are prepared for all eventualities and can successfully complete their flights.
Source references:
EASA FCL