Originally Posted by PRNAV1
Fair enough. but lets just say you've slowed down, you now encounter severe turb and your lower speed is not helping. you can't slow down anymore and the last thing you want is to stall. all i'm saying is i'd rather be over speed then under speed....
Indeed, agreed, and this is where the written medium is so bad for this type of conversation, the scenario you first described is actually now changed. If I have encountered turbulence and slowed down, as per my ops manual, I would already be considering another level (lower!) as that is my next course of action to;
1. See if I can get out of the turbulence. and;
2. Increase my speed margins.
CWS where fitted is very useful as you mention, disconnecting the autothrust can also help WHERE YOUR OPS/ MANUFACTURER APPROVES. So, trying to keep it to general guidance that applies to ALL types what can we offer?
1. Fly the recommend Turbulent Air Penetration Speed.
2. Ask ATC of known turbulence, levels and duration. Report your turbulence to them CORRECTLY (how many times have you heard 'moderate turbulence' and infact it's continuous light chop)!!
3. Descend to a lower level (bear in mind MFA, ISA deviations in temperature and windspeed in mountainous areas).
4. Try to fly a constant attitude and don't chase the airspeed.
5. Strap your full harness on, stow any loose articles.
6. Delay your 'ding, dong' for tea.....
7. I always speak to the crew and gain their perception, especially at the rear galley where light chop can feel terrible to them. Liase with the No.1, if it's marginal over seat belt use you could reach a compromise (they might want the belts on, but still be able to move around the cabin themselves).
8. If safety will be compromised AT ALL (bear in mind old infirm pax who might be planning a trip to the bathroom), then put the belts on. Again, worth involving your CC in this decision (even if it's belts on first and then a call, at an appropriate time; which may not arise in severe turbulence for quite a while).
9. Consider a PA to calm what may well be extremely frightened passengers.
10. All that said, AVIATE, NAVIGATE, COMMUNICATE.
Anyone else?
PP