Airline companies use various systems to establish guidelines by which flights can be flown. Typically, they're set in accordance with a company's goals for equipment and fuel conservation.
With so many systems available, thanks to technological advancements, pilots can just enter the requested variables to meet guidelines. However, they need to know how to proactively respond to recommended alternatives as presented by what is known as a flight management system.
Like most other piloting skills, practicing system navigation familiarizing yourself with different mechanisms, and developing muscle memory for different procedures make the transition easier for those transitioning to their roles as first officers in a regional airline.
1-day, 3-day, or 5-day aircraft simulator training sessions at Momentum Flight Training are designed to help aspiring regional pilots learn different skills in a safe environment so they can improve their proficiency by practicing in an AATD simulator that accurately reflects real-world systems and scenarios.
Pilots can develop a hands-on understanding and feel for flight dynamics, giving them an edge over others. Call [833] 427-5876 to speak to our qualified instructors, who can assist you with all the information you need to enroll yourself in the right advanced airline transition training that will help you move forward with your goals.
What is a Flight Management System (FMS): A Brief Refresher
Flight management systems (FMS) are undoubtedly the master computing systems of contemporary aircraft avionics because they control all other systems, computerized and otherwise.
The specialized electronic system utilizes sensors to automate various in-flight tasks, reducing the flight crew workload to the point that there's no need to carry flight navigators and engineers on modern airliners.
The FMS coordinates the adjustment of the airframe, engine, and flight parameters automatically or by instructing pilots on these tasks. All aspects of aviation are considered, starting from pre-flight planning to in-flight amendments and pulling up to the runway for landing.
Flight management systems are typically controlled through the impression display units, including a touchscreen, a keyboard, and a tiny low screen. They forward or transmit the flight plan for a display to the navigation display, electronic flight instrument system, and multifunction display with a cross-talk bus. FMS handles many variables automatically to gain consensus, ask for a decision or input, or present the planned action.
The Automatic Flight Guidance System or Automatic Flight Control is another component, along with a Flight Management Computer (FMC), the Aircraft Navigation System, and the Electronic Flight Instrument System (EFIS) or equivalent electromechanical instrumentation.
While the EPR levels, thrust settings, climb rate, descent rate, airspeed, and other terms vary, regional air carriers use FMCs comprising a large database to be pre-programmed into the systems using a data loader.
Appropriate navigation aids keep getting updated automatically with the aircraft's position. Integration with NAVCOM aids enables the FMS to alter radio frequencies as the flight plan gets enacted.
The AFGS or AFCS receives information from other aviator systems. Depending on whether the aviator is under manual or autopilot control, the Automatic Flight Control System mode selection automatically controls and moves the airliner flight control services, or it displays Flight Director commands that pilots follow to achieve the desired status.
Navigation System calculates the aircraft's position using inputs from GPS or IRS in addition to receivers for ground-based aids. The navigational input display is predicated on the Attitude and Heading Reference System in case of an EFIS. The aircraft status is displayed on conventional instrumentation or the Electronic Flight Instrument System, and here the impact of FMS aircraft control is principally visible.
The Difference Between FMS and FMC
A flight management system plays a multi-functional role, aiding the operations, navigation, and performance of an aviator. The system provides virtual information, ensuring safe and seamless operations. The function is to create operational harmony from pre-flight planning to the engine shutting down eventually.
Meanwhile, a flight management computer is used to pre-program aircraft routes. Using navigation aids in the Flight Management System and a large database allows for tracking where the aviator is. This implies that FMC is another component of the subsystems of the flight management system.
The best approach to improving safety and advancing in your career is to keep learning and practicing so you're prepared to handle all standard and unplanned conditions proactively.
FAA-qualified instructors at Momentum Flight Training help pilots develop a thorough understanding of aerodynamics with a combination of in-class sessions and time in simulators that reflect the systems in the Canadair Regional Jet 200, 550, 700, and 900.
Each learning experience is tailored according to the unique needs and capabilities of students, as well as the requirements of major regional airline companies. Experience, skills, and ongoing training can set you up for success!
Set up a consultation to discuss how our advanced aviation simulator training can make the transition to a regional airline easier.