Originally Posted by
propjunkie
altitude to lose (in thousands) x 3 = dme to start down
G/S divided by 2, add a 0 = FPM required for 3:1 calculation. (also works for FPM required for glideslopes)
example: you are 24000 need to cross nesto at 10000. Groundspeed is 420
14 x 3 = 42nm
420 / 2 = 210 add zero 2,100 FPM
start down at 42nm and use 2100 fpm
make sure to increase descent rate when GS increases
Or shallow out as GS decreases if you so desire. And if you have a speed restriction at the fix, tack on an extra mile for every 10 knots you need to lose. Again, just a good rule of thumb.
And remember everyone, the pu$$y paddles are for your mistakes, NOT the controllers.