I built a small circular FMC flightplan of 49 nm today to practice takeoffs, short climbs, descent, and approaches in the 744. I was intrigued to observe that after inputting a pre approach hold of IAS 190 at 3000 MSL, once I was airborne the 744 "stepped down" the speed automatically over a nice distance from the default speed of IAS 240 under 10,000' to IAS 226, then 206, then 190. This gave me time to throw out flaps in an orderly manner and maintain completely stable flight. I think I've observed this feature previously in the NG series. It's a great tool. Does it simulate the real aircraft in this respect?Jonathan

Yep, that's how the real thing does it. ;)

Jonathan-As you get into some higher altitude work using VNAV descents, you'll also enjoy the realistic methodology the 400 uses to implement the "slow to 250knots" as it descends through 10,000MSL (here in the US, at least.)If the airplane is flying a VNAV descent at 340knots, it displays to "decelleration donuts" along your flight path- indicating the start and stop points of it's decel plan...pretty cool to watch how it manages the excess speed in order to keep you from having a conversation with "the man" for breaking the speed limit.

That would basically explain why I (almost) :-) always pick the PMDG aircraft for my flight, between LDS, PMDG and PSS. Flights always work out as they should, without any hiccups!

OK, good to know about the auto slowing. It's a trip to watch. Those little green donuts on the ND above 10,000' are sweet and they work beautifully too. This is enormously impressive and really rather exciting too. She is Queen of the Sim Skies as well as Queen in real life!Jonathan

....'tis why we love her so!Best-Carl F. Avari-Cooper BAW0225http://online.vatsimindicators.net/980091/523.png

I am rooting for the 747-8 pax version. Good for LUFTHANSA and shame on BA! We need more Queens flying for the next 40 years.Jonathan