Originally Posted by
Uplinker
I have always "struggled" with V1, since it isn't a fixed point on the runway. It's physical location depends on many variable factors. So how can we be sure that we have sufficient distance left to emergency stop from just before V1 ? - that depends on factors such as acceleration, which is not measured.
In theory, it should be fairly simple with modern GPS equipped aircraft to write a routine in the FMS to use GPS data, the take-off distance calculation and aircraft airspeed, to determine a physical location on the runway for a true, dynamic V1. This could be relied on and used to provide a green GO indication on the PFD, or whatever sort of alert was thought to be appropriate.
This would take into account slow acceleration, incorrect ZFM, incorrect thrust setting, incorrect thrust achieved, etc.
I cannot agree more. All the calculations are based on ground run, the decision is based on airspeed instruments, with wild variations in gusty conditions. It should definitely be based on ground based parameters, corrected for wind gust. and acceleration data should absolutely be included.
I had a discussion with a tech pilot/check airman who thought of V1 as a ground speed because of how it was measured. Maybe in theory, but what is the instrument we use when we call V1. With current technology we should be doing way better..