PMDG 747-400 and 737NG

[Guest Haseen]

1. Is it possible to create a 'Procedure Turn' for an approach in the FMS?2. How exterior lights are used in relation to phases of flight?

[downscc 1,327]

Procedure turns are rare in today's radar and gps environment, many newer rnav (gps) approaches are using holding patterns instead for the purpose of getting on the right track between the IF and FAF.I always include the procedure turn or holding pattern in the sidstars I provide.. but these are custom routes. I don't think it is possible to program one from the FMC, it's easier just to fly it using the MCP HDG and ALT controls if you wish.From any direction, fly over the fix (usually the FAF) and turn outbound 1 min (maybe less if landing winds are above 10 kts), then turn 45 deg left or right as depicted on the chart and restart the timer. Hold that outbound for one minute then make a 180 deg turn in the opposite direction (if you turned right to go outbound then turn left to go inbound). Now you are on a 45 deg intercept for final, and in usually a little less than a minute the CDI needle will start moving and it's time to turn to final course. Maintain altitude per the chart until established on final approach.These are really one of the easiest manuevers that an instrument pilot trainee has to learn. Give it a try......As for lights, Beacon is on whenever engines are running. Usually all others are on below 10000 for collision avoidance.