Copyright D.P. Browne 2011
Altitude Change
During the cruise phase, the flight crew prepare the MCDU to accept a step altitude change to FL390. This will allow a better fuel burn over the remainder of the flight.
The PNF selects the PERF cruise page and then selects the STEP ALTS prompt. This then displays the STEP ALTS page.
The PNF selects enters a step altitude 10 nautical miles beyond waypoint Ebony to a flight level of 390.
The FMGC accepts this input and creates a new waypoint (PD1) which is 10 nm down the flight path from Ebony, where the climb to FL390 will begin.
The MCDU Step Alts page shows the current distance and expected ETA at that new waypoint.
On the Flight Plan page the waypoint is shown as “S/C” meaning Step Climb, with the following down path waypoints in the cruise segment now being at FL390.
On the Cruise Performance page, the step point is indicated withe ETA and distance information.
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