Continuous descent operation

Link	Semantic Value
Term	continuous descent operation
Status
Mandatory for
Contexts
Categories
Synonyms
Related entries	continuous descent approach (CDA)
Broader term
Narrower term

Abbreviation

CDO

Definition

An operation, enabled by airspace design, procedure design and ATC facilitation, in which an arriving aircraft descends continuously, to the greatest possible extent, by employing minimum engine thrust, ideally in a low drag configuration, prior to the final approach fix /final approach point.

Definition Source

ICAO Doc 9931, draft 2010 (very soon to be finalized)

Note

1.— An optimum CDO starts from the top of descent and uses descent profiles that reduce , segments of level flight, noise, fuel burn, emissions and controller/pilot communications, while increasing predictability to pilots and controllers and flight stability.

2.— A CDO initiated from the highest possible level in the enroute or arrival phases of flight will achieve the maximum reduction in fuel burn, noise, and emissions.