The Precision Manuals Development Group (PMDG) 737 is renowned among flight simulation enthusiasts for its high-fidelity replication of the Boeing 737 series aircraft. To ensure a smooth and safe operation within the simulation environment, mastering the PMDG 737 checklist is essential. This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth look at the standard procedures, phases of flight, and critical checklist items necessary for operating the PMDG 737 safely and efficiently. Whether you're a seasoned virtual pilot or a newcomer seeking to enhance your procedural knowledge, understanding and executing the PMDG 737 checklist is vital for realism, safety, and success in your virtual flights.
Understanding the Importance of the Checklist
Why Use a Checklist?
Using a checklist ensures consistency, safety, and adherence to standardized operating procedures. It minimizes the risk of missing critical steps that could compromise aircraft safety or operational efficiency. In a high-fidelity simulation like the PMDG 737, following the checklist closely enhances realism and helps develop good piloting habits.
Types of Checklists in the PMDG 737
The PMDG 737 features several checklists tailored to different phases of flight:
- Preflight Checklist
- Before Start Checklist
- Start-Up Checklist
- Before Taxi Checklist
- Taxi Checklist
- Takeoff Checklist
- Climb Checklist
- Cruise Checklist
- Descent Checklist
- Approach Checklist
- Landing Checklist
- Shutdown Checklist
Each checklist is designed to prepare the aircraft for the next phase, ensuring systems are correctly configured and operational.
Preflight Procedures
Preflight Checklist
Before entering the cockpit, thorough preflight preparations are essential:
- Review flight plan, weather, NOTAMs, and aircraft documents.
- Verify aircraft weight, balance, and fuel calculations.
- Conduct a visual inspection of the aircraft exterior for any damage or issues.
- Check the aircraft's systems, including batteries, external power, and service doors.
Cockpit Setup
Once inside the cockpit, initialize the cockpit environment:
- Power on aircraft systems via the battery and external power source.
- Load the navigational charts and flight plan into the FMC (Flight Management Computer).
- Configure the FMC with the departure, arrival, and enroute waypoints.
- Set up the autopilot and FMC according to airline procedures or personal preferences.
Pre-Start and Start-Up Procedures
Before Start Checklist
Ensure all systems are configured properly before starting engines:
- Confirm parking brake is set.
- Check that doors are closed and secured.
- Verify that external power is connected or that the aircraft's batteries are sufficient.
- Configure the fuel pumps and crossfeed as needed.
- Set the parking brake and ensure the aircraft is ready for engine start.
Start-Up Checklist
Follow the sequence for engine start:
1. APU Initialization
- Ensure APU switch is off initially.
- Turn on the APU master switch.
- Wait for APU to stabilize (light extinguishes).
2. Engine Start
- Set the fuel control switches to 'GRD' (ground).
- Engage the engine start switches one at a time.
- Monitor N2, N1, EGT, and oil pressure.
- Once engines stabilize, set engine mode selectors to 'IDLE'.
3. Systems Checks
- Confirm engines are running smoothly.
- Turn off the APU if not needed.
- Verify electrical systems are functioning properly.
Taxi Procedures
Before Taxi Checklist
Prepare the aircraft for taxi:
- Set parking brake.
- Configure the flight controls for taxi.
- Check that the brake and steering systems are operational.
- Confirm the transponder code is set correctly.
- Brief the taxi route and any expected hold points.
Taxi Checklist
During taxi:
- Test the flight controls for full movement.
- Ensure nosewheel steering is functioning.
- Check the brake system for responsiveness.
- Verify the taxi light is on.
- Communicate with ground control as required.
Takeoff Procedures
Before Takeoff Checklist
Prior to lining up on the runway:
- Confirm flaps are set to the appropriate takeoff position.
- Verify the trim setting.
- Check the departure runway and ensure correct routing.
- Set the autothrottle if used.
- Confirm all instruments and systems are within limits.
Takeoff Checklist
Execute the following:
- Line up the aircraft on the runway.
- Conduct a final takeoff briefing.
- Confirm runway alignment.
- Engage the autothrottle or apply takeoff power manually.
- Monitor engine parameters during the roll.
- Rotate at VR (rotation speed).
- Maintain runway heading and establish initial climb.
- Retract landing gear after positive climb is established.
- Cross-check autopilot engagement if planned.
Climb and Cruise Procedures
Climb Checklist
During initial climb:
- Set climb power and monitor engine instruments.
- Engage autopilot if desired.
- Adjust the pitch to maintain the optimal climb rate.
- Confirm the gear is up and the flaps are retracted.
- Set the appropriate climb altitude in the FMC or autopilot.
Cruise Checklist
At cruising altitude:
- Verify autopilot is engaged and stable.
- Set the autopilot altitude and speed.
- Monitor fuel consumption and system parameters.
- Cross-check navigation systems.
- Conduct any required system tests or updates.
Descent and Approach Procedures
Descent Checklist
Preparing for descent:
- Review weather at destination and alternate airports.
- Program the FMC for arrival procedures.
- Set the planned descent altitude.
- Brief the approach and landing procedures.
- Reduce speed and engine power gradually.
Approach Checklist
As approaching the airport:
- Configure the aircraft for approach:
- Extend flaps to the approach position.
- Set the speed and descent rate.
- Confirm landing gear is down and locked.
- Verify approach lights and systems are operational.
- Cross-check navigation accuracy.
- Brief any last-minute considerations.
Landing Procedures
Landing Checklist
Final preparations:
- Confirm flaps are set to full.
- Ensure landing gear is down and locked.
- Set approach speed and descent profile.
- Confirm autoland or manual landing procedures.
- Brief go-around procedures if necessary.
Landing Execution
During the approach:
- Maintain stabilized approach parameters.
- Monitor speed, altitude, and glide slope.
- Flare at the appropriate height.
- Touch down smoothly.
- Apply reverse thrust and brakes.
- Exit the runway if possible and proceed to taxi.
Post-Flight Procedures
Shutdown Checklist
After parking:
- Set the parking brake.
- Extend flaps to the zero position.
- Turn off the autopilot.
- Shut down engines:
- Reduce thrust to idle.
- Engage engine stop switches.
- Turn off the fuel control switches.
- Turn off electrical systems.
- Turn off anti-ice systems if used.
- Complete aircraft paperwork and secure the cockpit.
Conclusion
Mastering the PMDG 737 checklist is fundamental for anyone aiming to simulate realistic and safe flight operations. It enforces discipline, accuracy, and familiarity with aircraft systems, enhancing both the enjoyment and authenticity of the virtual flying experience. Regular practice of these procedures not only improves procedural proficiency but also deepens understanding of the aircraft's operations, making each flight more immersive and rewarding. As with real-world pilots, adopting a systematic approach to checklists ensures safety, efficiency, and confidence from engine start to shut down, elevating your virtual piloting skills to professional standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recommended procedure for starting the engines in the PMDG 737 checklist?
Begin with the APU ON, then set the APU bleed and ignition switches to ON. Confirm APU bleed is active, then set the engine start switches to START individually, monitoring N2 and N1 parameters until engines ignite and stabilize.
How do I perform the cockpit setup checklist in the PMDG 737?
Configure the cockpit by setting the altimeters, configuring the FCU and autopilot, confirming the flight control check, setting up the radios and navigation systems, and verifying the fuel and weight distribution according to the airline’s procedures.
What are the key steps in the descent checklist for the PMDG 737?
Reduce speed to approach configuration, set the altimeters, select the approach mode on the autopilot, configure the flaps and slats as required, and communicate with ATC for clearance and frequencies.
When should I verify the landing gear and flap configurations in the PMDG 737 checklist?
Verify the landing gear is down and locked, and the flaps are extended to the appropriate setting during the approach phase, typically when crossing the final approach fix and before commencing the descent to landing.
How do I perform the after-landing checklist in the PMDG 737?
Retard the thrust levers to idle, extend the landing lights, retract the flaps and slats, set the transponder to standby, and prepare for taxi instructions by configuring the taxi lights and brakes.
Are there any specific tips for managing checklist execution in the PMDG 737 for realism?
Yes, follow the checklist in sequence, use the in-sim checklist prompts or manual, and ensure to pause briefly between steps to simulate real cockpit procedures, enhancing realism and situational awareness.
