What is the preferred method for descent within 50 miles from TOD?

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Multiple Choice

What is the preferred method for descent within 50 miles from TOD?

Explanation:
The key idea is using the automation to follow the planned vertical profile as you approach TOD. Entering a lower altitude in the MCP and selecting DES NOW on the DESCENT page then executing starts a controlled descent toward that altitude or the VNAV path, typically around 1,000 fpm. This aligns you with the published VNAV profile, ensures you meet altitude constraints, and provides a smooth transition onto the descent path with the autothrottle/flight path guidance managing speed and path capture. Relying on an automatic landing sequence from TOD isn’t appropriate here; autoland features are designed for the final approach and landing phase and aren’t the method for initiating descent to a published path. Holding altitude until intercepting the VNAV path delays descent and can cause spacing or constraint issues. Descent done manually by adjusting thrust to maintain current speed is more workload-intensive and less precise, risking deviations from the planned VNAV path.

The key idea is using the automation to follow the planned vertical profile as you approach TOD. Entering a lower altitude in the MCP and selecting DES NOW on the DESCENT page then executing starts a controlled descent toward that altitude or the VNAV path, typically around 1,000 fpm. This aligns you with the published VNAV profile, ensures you meet altitude constraints, and provides a smooth transition onto the descent path with the autothrottle/flight path guidance managing speed and path capture.

Relying on an automatic landing sequence from TOD isn’t appropriate here; autoland features are designed for the final approach and landing phase and aren’t the method for initiating descent to a published path. Holding altitude until intercepting the VNAV path delays descent and can cause spacing or constraint issues. Descent done manually by adjusting thrust to maintain current speed is more workload-intensive and less precise, risking deviations from the planned VNAV path.

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