DF 737 ILS approach procedures to minimums (manual)

[Zach]

The following is an auto-pilot ILS procedure when visibility is 1/2 mile or LESS (especially useful at night in heavy rain or snow):

Approach 1000' AGL with LOC and GS active {"locked"), Flaps 30 degrees, Auto-throttles maintaining 140 kts, Speed Brakes ("spoilers") ARMED (NOT deployed!), Auto-brakes set to 1, Gear DOWN.

At 500' AGL co-pilot will call "500" feet AGL. Auto throttles OFF...

As auto-pilot maintains the approach, look for the approach lights (the "rabbit"). When rabbit is in sight...folling it to the approach end of the runway. Runway insight: autopilot OFF, flaps to 40 degrees, throttles to idle and slowing round out. (Warning: Do NOT increase altitude during round out or you will loose sight of the runway. If so, GO-AROUND!) Main gear should kiss the runway, spoilers will automatically deploy, auto-breaks will automatically activate, gently lower nose to the ground and manually activate throttle reverse...at all times on the runway maintain directional control. And...Oh my, what a rush!

Zach

[michal]

LAST EDITED ON Jan-02-02 AT 04:09PM (EDT)[p]> Runway insight: autopilot OFF,
>flaps to 40 degrees, throttles
>to idle

I beg to differ. At 1/2 mile visibility on a normal approach you would be about 120+ ft above runway when finally getting the visual contact. A bit too high to cut power to idle in a jet. Wait at least till 50 ft. BTW, this is almost Cat. II approach in real world.

Also changing the aircraft configuration so late in the approach (extending flaps) is highly non-standard I am afraid and should be avoided.

Michael J.