Radio altimeter setting on CAT I and non-precision approaches

[PEI_3721]

Simulator databases: - if your simulator has EGPWS, check that the equipment used is a ‘real’ EGPWS box.
If so, then the simulation should have the appropriate terrain databases for free (check database currency and EGPWS software mod state). The sim may require a simple configuration change / wiring mod.
When EGPWS was first used in simulators, a few operators had some surprises when flying their specific engine out procedures – emergency turns etc. Only with the EGPWS / terrain database did they realize how close you can get to ‘real’ terrain. One operator discovered that a particularly ‘difficult’ procedure did not provide terrain clearance at all.
The EGPWS database should also provide (simulate) accurate Rad Alt displays.
This is a display which IMHO should be included in the instrument scan during all approaches – it is a display which aids situation awareness. Rad Alt callouts, alerts, etc are additional awareness tools. Ensure that theiry are used and their applicability briefed before the approach is started; don’t discard them because the approach is not Cat 2/3.
Don’t forget visual approaches (and take off) – see incidents # 7 & 8.