Jos, would it be better to control when to descend or have PATC tell me when? I think the latter would be more realistic right?

Do you guys think it would be better for the immersion to use FS2Crew along with PATC? 

I remember the option being added because a lot of users were having trouble with the early descent given by ATC. I also think that the crew asking for a descent is not uncommon. 

jos

21 hours ago, captain420 said:

Jos, would it be better to control when to descend or have PATC tell me when? I think the latter would be more realistic right?

Do you guys think it would be better for the immersion to use FS2Crew along with PATC? 

In RL it depends on where you are flying and how busy the airspace is currently. ATC doesnt see any TOC indicator on their screen, they will roughly calculate the TOD based on approach procedures, your aircraft profile and the current winds. However, their calculations do not take your current weight into consideration and they dont really bother about descent profiles considered to be 'economical' by your airline (incl CI). Usually they try start your descent early enough but if the PIC feels that he might get into trouble (energy management) he can request descent earlier. This request might be accepted or denied, if its the latter you may have to exercise good energy management and even enter a hold to bleed of speed and altitude. 

Conclusion: As your FMC calculates your TOD using a more precise set of information i'd always request manual decent once you reach the calculated TOD without ATC stepping in. 

 

FS2CREW adds quite a bit to the immersion imho, but its not available for the 747v3 yet. It will also ease your workload during takeoff and approach so you can focus on actually flying the plane.