Lesson 1: Boeing 737 Checkout

Boeing 737–800 Straight-in Visual Approach


Action Key / Control

Intercepting the Final Approach Course Heading

Target altitude: 3,000 to 5,000 feet AGL
15 to 20 nm (nautical miles) from the airport
Set flaps to 5.
Set power between 53 and 55 percent N1.
Press F7 until flap gauge points to 5.
Advance throttle (press F3).
Reduce throttle (press F2).
Pitch 5 to 6 degrees for level flight.
Target speed: 170 knots
Lined up with the centerline

Approaching 10 nm from the Airport

Gear down Press G.
Set flaps to 15. Press F7 until flap gauge points to 15.
Set power between 62 and 64 percent N1 (if necessary for extended level flight). Advance throttle (press F3).
Reduce throttle (press F2).
Target speed: 160 knots

Just before VASI or Glide Slope Intercept ("One dot low")

Set flaps to 30. Press F7 until flap gauge points to 30.
Set power between 53 and 58 percent N1. Advance throttle (press F3).
Reduce throttle (press F2).
Pitch 0 to 2 degrees nose up.
Descend at 800 fpm (feet per minute) once established on the VASI or glide slope. Move stick forward until VSI reads between about 800 fpm.
Target speed: 150 knots (or appropriate Vref speed for your weight)

On Final

Set flaps to 30 Press F7 until flap gauge points to 30.
Set power between 53 and 58 percent N1.Set pitch 0 degrees. Advance throttle (press F3).
Reduce throttle (press F2).
Target speed: 150 knots
Begin a 700-to-800-fpm descent once on the VASI or glide slope. Adjust pitch until VSI reads between 700 to 800 fpm.

Crossing the Threshold

Smoothly reduce power to idle Reduce throttle (press F2).
Cut throttle (press F1).
Gradually pitch up to 3 degrees nose up. Pull back on stick.
Touch down and remain on the centerline
Apply reverse thrust. Press and hold F2.
Apply brakes. Press the PERIOD "." key.
Disengage thrust reversers Press F1.