PF's Landing View

[Guest]

Hi,I have a question prompted by the discussion of landing views in 767 PIC, but applicable to any of the larger aircraft:Since the PF is seated to the left or right of the centerline(nose-to-tail) of the aircraft, his/her view of the runway is necessarily different to the plane's 'view'. I would like to know how he/she compensates for this offset, so as to line up correctly for the approach and landing?Many Thanks,Frank

[KevinAu]

The difference between left and right really doesn't matter during approach and landing. You're only two or three feet from the center of the aircraft. Just keep the centerline dash between your legs.During taxiing, especially when approaching the gate, you do take it into account and compensate by maintaining a sight picture of having the yellow line slightly off to the right side that you know should be correct for keeping the nosewheel on that line. You can use this same technique when lining up for takeoff, although during the takeoff run, you would want to keep the nosewheel off the "turtles" to keep the plane from thumping over each and every centerline light fixture.

[Guest DreamFleet]

The reality is that you are really not that far off the centerline of the aircraft (a couple feet at best?), the view really is not that different, and with experience it is "second nature" to line up correctly using simple visual cues. You could probably do it without a problem if you were to ever fly a full motion sim for the first time. I know I had no problem with lining up sitting 3 stories off the ground when I flew a full motion 744 sim. I lined it up just like I lined up the Piper Arrow I am pictured in below. Just expect that if you are flying from the left seat, the centerline will be slightly to your right once you are very close to the runway, and I mean slightly. At a greater distance from the runway, any visual difference is essentially moot.I'm sure Boeing's 767 manual probably goes into some detail about this, including proper seat adjustment, but that aside, it's not hard at all.Regards,http://www.dreamfleet2000.com/gfx/images/F..._FORUM_LOUE.jpg

[Guest]

Hi Kevin,Thanks for a really prompt reply!I take your point that the "two or three feet" offset is quite small, but am not clear why the sight picture you mention is not as applicable to landing as to takeoff, if you are aiming for that perfect touchdown?Best wishes,Frank

[Guest]

Hi Lou,Clear now!Many thanks,Frank

[Guest]

Hi Kevin,I am clear now, so you can ignore my previous reply, if you wish?Of course, distance from the runway(both vertical and, what's the correct word, "horizontal"?) makes the difference quite negligable!Thanks once again,Frank

[BobP]

Hi Everyone,Not sure about the Boeing manual. I do remember how Captn Tarmack answered this question for the 747. He just kept the centerline on his right leg. Sounds good to me!BobP :)

[KevinAu]

The word you are looking for is "lateral". I'm actually happy if the centerline is anywhere between the mains...:-lol However, I'll bet this guy can plant the nosewheel squarely on the centerline stripes each and every time...[http://www.theonion.com/onion3836/i_am_the_top_gun.html]

[Guest MB327]

Yea, RIGHT! How do you find stuff like that? I am sure American Airlines would love to get that one knocked off the internet.

[Guest]

You don't. Put the line between your legs on approach and landing. When taxiing put the line on your right leg (if you are on the right seat you are not taxiing). If you trty to approach on the left because you are setaing on the left you'll be way off. Put the line between your legs. Pedro

[Guest gremel]

I would bet you that this whole article is BS....I've been through Naval Flight Training and he is definitely not a product Naval Aviation. If he is, then things have really gone done hill since the late 60's..Regards,

[Guest]

Nope, Kevin :-)!I meant distance to go to the runway. Don't think there is a single word for it, though?Thanks,Frank

[Guest]

Thanks to everyone for your helpful responses!/Frank