4-1 CHAPTER 4. FLIGHTCREW TRAINING
4.1 Use of CDFA. Using a CDFA on a suitable NPA should be an SOP. Operators who use a CDFA technique on NPAs should incorporate CDFA training into their training programs where NPAs are performed and evaluated. This AC does not recommend one technique over another or recommend all techniques be covered in training. Operators may choose and train to a preferred CDFA method.
4.2 Manuals and SOPs. Operators should revise their flight manuals and/or SOPs to identify CDFAs as a standard method of performing an NPA.
4.3 Training. Additional flight training to use the CDFA technique is not required for pilots qualified to conduct NPAs with advisory vertical guidance in accordance with the operator’s certificate. However, operators should provide flightcrews with appropriate ground training before performing CDFA operations. The ground training may be computer-based, published in flight operations bulletins, or provided via other similar means deemed acceptable by the Principal Operations Inspector (POI). Flightcrew members should receive training specific to the aircraft type, the installed flight guidance, and the navigation system, and on how to utilize the system when using the CDFA technique for applicable approach profiles. Part 91 operators should be familiar with CDFA techniques and be proficient with navigation systems they use to perform a CDFA, if applicable.
4.4 Training Program Topics. Each operator’s CDFA training program should address the following topics:
1. Stabilized Approach Concept. Operators should emphasize the stabilized approach concept and the safety benefits of using the CDFA.
2. When Not to Use CDFA. O perators should discuss approach characteristics
(e.g., circling-only minima) and environmental factors (e.g., icing) that could make the use of CDFA inadvisable.
3. Baro-VNAV . Operators should discuss the use of the RNP system’s baro-VNAV advisory vertical guidance, if applicable, during NPA operations.
4. SBAS/WAAS. Ope rators should discuss the use of the RNP system’s SBAS-based
(e.g., WAAS-based) advisory vertical guidance, if applicable, during NPA operations.
5. Calculating Rate of Descent. Ope rators should discuss methods for translating the published GP or VDA into the required rate of descent for aircraft not equipped with a system capable of computing and flying a vertical profile.
6. Confirming VPATH. Operators should discuss techniques for tracking progress along the final approach vertical profile.
7. M eeting IAP Altitud e Restrictions. Operators should discuss techniques for ensuring compliance with all altitude restrictions in the FAS.
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8. Calculating a DDA . Operators should discuss how to calculate a DDA to ensure the aircraft does not descend below the MDA when accomplishing a missed approach on a CDFA.
9. D ive and Drive Maneuver. Ope rators should discuss the impact on approach stabilization by using the dive and drive technique. (See Figure 3-6.)
10. Crew Coordination. Operators should discuss pilot flying (PF) and pilot monitoring (PM) callouts and other crew coordination activities needed to ensure safe transition from the vertical profile to either landing or a go-around/missed approach at the MDA or DDA.
11. Go-Around Pri or to MAP. Operators should discuss procedures for executing a go-around prior to reaching the MAP.
12. Visual Glide Slope Indicator (VGSI) and Obstacle Protection. Operators should discuss the need to comply with the VGSI, if available, and discussion of the obstacle protection the VGSI provides in the visual segment.
Advisory Circular Feedback Form If you find an error in this AC, have recommendations for improving it, or have suggestions for new items/subjects to be added, you may let us know by contacting the Flight Technologies and Procedures Division at 9-AWA-AFS400-Coord@faa.gov or the Flight Standards Directives Management Officer at 9-AWA-AFB-120-Directives@faa.gov.
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