Events
Events
Events
MY FS FLIGHTS
Flight Score
Smooth the climb
A good takeoff has a defined shape. It also has a defined end. For an airliner that's thrust reduction and acceleration, commonly somewhere around 1,000 to 1,500 ft above the airfield depending on the operator, while for a light aircraft it's established at Vy with the flaps on schedule. Most simmers have no defined end to their takeoff, which is exactly why it never gets judged.
Read more in Improve Your Take-OffsStart to finish · 16 stages, 15 scored
Events
Events
Events
One stabilised approach gate for a circuit: six checks at the point nearest 500 ft above the runway after the base turn. The 1,000 ft gate is an instrument-approach check and does not apply.
The approach, gate by gate
Side view — the last 1,524 m of the approach.
Plan view — the first 1,524 m of the 1,814 m runway, to the same scale as the side view.
Touched down 632 m past the threshold — beyond the full-score zone. The arrival was smooth.
The rest of the report
The flight began with the departure roll from runway 23 at Inverness Airport (EGPE), utilizing a TBM 850 aircraft. The aircraft successfully took off, reaching a liftoff speed of 99 knots within a distance of 146 meters, which accounted for only 8% of the runway length. Local weather conditions during takeoff included a moderate temperature of 20 degrees Celsius and a gentle wind of 3 knots coming in from 227 degrees, amounting to a slight headwind.
After takeoff, the aircraft navigated through a right-hand pattern, entering into the turn from the runway 23 at EGPE airport. In just 21 seconds, it covered a distance of less than 1 nautical mile, showcasing the aircraft's agility and maneuverability. As the pattern progressed, it crossed the downwind with a short distance of less than 1 nautical mile in 16 seconds. Subsequent turns included the downwind turn, base turn, and final turn, all of which were performed smoothly and efficiently.
Upon approaching the runway 23 at EGPE from a northeasterly heading (255 degrees) at an altitude of 504 feet, the aircraft began its final descent. During landing, the crew aimed to touch down within the designated touchdown zone, with a target threshold height of 58 feet above ground level. However, the threshold height was slightly above this target. Moreover, the touchdown speed of 88 knots was slightly higher than ideal, while the airspeed was lower at 66 kt.
The aircraft performed an excellent touchdown, with its touchdown point located 196 meters beyond the designated touchdown zone. It came down at a rate of perfect -18 feet per minute and aligned well with the runway. The local weather conditions remained unchanged during landing, with the same temperature and wind conditions. As a result of the landing, the total landing distance covered was 1,988 meters or 55% of the runway length.
The runway rollout alignment was perfect, with the aircraft coming to a complete stop in the correct direction of travel. Following the landing, the total flight distance covered was 9 nautical miles, which was achieved in a time of 5 minutes. Furthermore, the aircraft consumed a fuel amount of 29 kilograms, resulting in significant fuel efficiency. The performance of the TBM 850 aircraft during this flight showcased its exceptional handling, stability, and landing capabilities.
The aircraft in question is a TBM 850, a high-performance turboprop plane known for its excellent handling and aerodynamics. On this particular landing, the pilot achieved a score of 94.2%, indicating a highly successful and proficient approach and touchdown.
The final approach to runway 23 at EGPE Inverness Airport was made from the north-east, at a heading of 255.0°. At 1 nm and 504 feet above ground level (agl), the aircraft was in a solid position for a controlled descent. The approach was conducted in a standard manner, with the pilot taking advantage of the favorable wind conditions, which included a gentle 3 kt headwind.
Upon reaching threshold height, the pilot was marginally above the target altitude of 58 ft agl, which is not uncommon and is not considered a critical deviation. However, the pilot's threshold speed was high, at 88 kt, which is generally considered excessive.
The touchdown point was 196 meters beyond the designated touchdown zone, which is a relatively minor deviation, considering the overall performance. The touchdown speed was commendable, however, at 66 kt, which is right on target. The most impressive aspect of the landing was the descent rate, which was perfect at -18 fts (feet per second), indicating precise control and command of the aircraft.
Furthermore, the runway touchdown alignment was very good, demonstrating a strong understanding of the aircraft's ground handling characteristics. The local weather conditions, with a temperature of 20 °C and a light 3 kt wind at 227°, played a favorable role in the landing, providing a stable and consistent environment for a smooth touchdown.
The total landing distance was a respectable 988 meters, which is 55% of the runway length. Runway rollout alignment was exceptional, indicating a controlled and precise deceleration throughout the rollout.
In summary, this landing showcased the TBM 850's excellent handling and aerodynamics, combined with the pilot's skill and experience. The score of 94.2% is a testament to the pilot's proficiency and attention to detail during the landing, and is a great reflection on both the pilot and the aircraft.
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