This wimp loves his VNAV in the 737-600

58 minutes ago, Christopher Low said:

The video that I watched seemed to suggest that the RJ does not have VNAV (even though there is a VNAV button on the MCP). Is that correct?

From what I recall VNAV was initially included in the design as per the 146 but it was never implemented as operators weren't willing to pay for the work needed. The button therefore exists but the work to couple the vertical aspect of the flight guidance system to the FMS was never done.

The FMS however is VNAV capable so it functions as an advisory system where the vertical profile is displayed but the autopilot can't follow it automatically. You would use V/S to meet any restrictions versus the vertical profile, or LVL CHG for a normal climb/descent.

Edited November 7, 20241 yr by G MIDY

1 hour ago, G MIDY said:

From what I recall VNAV was initially included in the design as per the 146 but it was never implemented as operators weren't willing to pay for the work needed. The button therefore exists but the work to couple the vertical aspect of the flight guidance system to the FMS was never done.

The FMS however is VNAV capable so it functions as an advisory system where the vertical profile is displayed but the autopilot can't follow it automatically. You would use V/S to meet any restrictions versus the vertical profile, or LVL CHG for a normal climb/descent.

Exactly, adds a little bit of a challenge and workload for me anyway. Keeps me on my toes following the ALT & SPD restrictions. Love it!😉

2 hours ago, Christopher Low said:

suggest that the RJ does not have VNAV

Yes, that is correct as earlier replied.
As per real aircraft: It does have the button but is also inoperative.
But you get a FLCH button.

Also the MLS button (Microwave Landing System) is present, but also inoperative.
 

Deleted

Edited November 7, 20241 yr by Egbert Drenth
double post

Even without VNAV it’s quite a workload reduction over the -146 😀

does it have a descent banana?  You know that little symbol that will let you know where you will be when you reach the desired altitude?

16 minutes ago, micstatic said:

does it have a descent banana?  You know that little symbol that will let you know where you will be when you reach the desired altitude?

Yes. I believe this was an airline option though (heard from a RJ mechanic 20 yrs ago so take it with a grain of salt!!)

But it is present in JF RJ.

1 hour ago, micstatic said:

does it have a descent banana?  You know that little symbol that will let you know where you will be when you reach the desired altitude?

I have seen that green banana on the PMDG 737 ND, but I have never known what it is supposed to represent, or how to read it!!

25 minutes ago, Christopher Low said:

I have seen that green banana on the PMDG 737 ND, but I have never known what it is supposed to represent, or how to read it!!

Easy. Distance to TOC/BOD.  Where the banana sits is a close approximation of either TOD or BOD. You will also notice it actively changes.  That’s because your FP and descent path frequently fluctuates and the banana is just keeping up.

That’s my understanding of it anyway.

-B