Runway length in XML and Glide Slope Calculation

[rkruijer]

Hi,

I have 2 questions today

1. Is it possible to get the runway length of the runway I am locked on to in XML?

2. Does anyone have a formula for Glide Slope calculation.

I know there are 3 factors. Height, Speed and distance.
The result of the calculation would be the vertical speed needed to get land the aircraft.
I am wondering how FS9 does that when locked on to the GS.

Roelof

[n4gix]

The answer to question #1 is yes, there is a way, but it is extraordinarly complex... You'll have to study the default G500 XML code to determine the method.

The variable you want is available from the fs9gps.dll and is:

@c:WaypointAirportRunwayLength, feet

However, you'll need to figure out how to structure your query to the database to get the final result.

As for question #2:

Height Above Touchdown divided by glideslope equals vdp. The air force teaches "Gus wears a HAT" as a memory aid. hat/gs=vdp

Most GS approaches are 3º, but this is by no means always the case...

Assuming a 3º GS then,

2500/3 = 833.333 VDP

See also: http://avstop.com/AC/landing/landing1.htm for further information.

[rkruijer]

Thank you for your answer,

You have sent me on my way.

Roelof

[mgh]

This may be slightly off-subject but what values do the following paramters take?

ATC SUGGESTED MIN RWY TAKEOFF - Suggested minimum runway length for takeoff. Used by ATC

ATC SUGGESTED MIN RWY LANDING - Suggested minimum runway length for landing. Used by ATC

[n4gix]

>This may be slightly off-subject but what values do the
>following paramters take?
>
>ATC SUGGESTED MIN RWY TAKEOFF - Suggested minimum runway
>length for takeoff. Used by ATC
>
>ATC SUGGESTED MIN RWY LANDING - Suggested minimum runway
>length for landing. Used by ATC
>

Those are "read only variables" of the type:

A:ATC SUGGESTED MIN RWY TAKEOFF,feet

[mgh]

Yes, but how does that length relate to the actual runway length available?

[n4gix]

>Yes, but how does that length relate to the actual runway
>length available?

It doesn't really, except if noted by the pilot. The variable reports the suggested length for the type a/c and conditions, which is used internally by the ATC to issue a runway assignment.

If someone programs a gauge to display the variable, the simpilot might take note and realize that he probably won't be able to succesfully takeoff in his/her 747 from a 5,000' grass strip... ;)