Which vertical speed should i select in order to maintain the 3.5 glide path?

Dear simmers, maybe a basic question for some of you, but i am looking for an answer in order to manage certain approaches. Below you can see a screenshot of the RNAV approach to RWY 02 MHGT. When reaching TG015 i must be at 7.000 feets and start right away a descent of a 3.5 glide path.

If i want to descent manually by selecting VS in the autopilot, which vertical speed should i select when reaching TG015 in order to follow the approach to the runway?

Thanks for your help and information :+1:t2:

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At what speed?

The general rule of thumb for 3 degree glides is 100fpm for every 18 knots of ground speed.

If you want 3.5 degrees, just tack on an extra 1/6th, (so if your ideal descent rate for a 3 degree glide is 600fpm, make it 700 for 3.5 degrees)

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The little table in the bottom of the chart is your guide. If you are traveling at 90kts then your VS should be -557.

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As others have said youre looking for around 700FPM

What I’ll add to that is to use small precise corrections. If for example you’re just a little below the slope reduce the descent (watch your power, airspeed) capture it again and keep going down the slope.

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Exact calculation would be:
V_kn * (115750/1143) * tan( glide_path_degrees )

Example:
130 kn * (115750/1143) * tan( 3.0° ) = 689.9441 fpm

In general for a 3° glide path the rule of thumb is speed in knots * 5. In the above case you would end with 650 fpm.

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A handy app to keep open in the background if an approach plate is unavailable:

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Thank you so much guys! I think I have now the tool and information needed for a successful approach!
:call_me_hand:

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Uh…I was told there would be no math :slight_smile:

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They lied .

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