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Old 25th August 2012 | 17:27
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A4

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: ATPL
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It depends on the Operators SOP's as well. My company has a preferred landing CONFIG of Flap3 (subject to runway length) but it is up to the operating crew to choose.

One of the main factors is wind component on final approach - not just the surface wind. If there is a tailwind on the approach then it's flap full usually as the aircraft deceleration is too slow whilst trying to comply with ATC speed requests (160 to 4d). Likewise a crosswind, straight across, on the approach can also compromise deceleration to the point where it's easier (from a stability point of view) to just elect to use flap full.

It is a requirement that we must be in the landing configuration by 1000' agl and we must be stable at 500'.

When we brief the approach we will state the proposed config - but can elect to modify it subject to conditions. If I'm honest, I would treat any reports of a wind shift in my favour around 500' with caution. If there's a chance I'm going to be unstable I'll just elect to go flap full - I may burn a little extra fuel but it'll be a damn sight less than a go-around!

The way VIE does it sounds simple and will give the crew an early heads up - particularly as we listen to the ATIS prior to briefing. The more info the better!
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