Steep Approach Mode

This feature is only available in the E190/195.

The E190 and E195 are equipped with a special mode to perform steep approaches. This mode will increase the amount of drag to keep the approach speed on a high descent rate by deploying spoilers 4+5. The angle of attack of the spoilers depends on the position of the yoke. Pulling the yoke lowers the spoilers (e.g. during flare/landing) while pushing the yoke extends them further.

Procedure

Steep approach uses FLAPS FULL but MCDU is set to FLAPS 5 by default. Remember to change it accordingly on the landing preference page.

Arm

When approaching the glideslope press the STEEP button on the left side of the pedestal.

  • A white STEEP FMA will appear on PFD

  • Steep approach mode is now armed. To disarm just press the button again.

Button to arm/disarm the steep approach mode.

Engage

When all of the following conditions are met the steep approach mode will become active which is indicated by a green, momentairly flashing STEEP FMA on PFD:

  • STEEP mode is armed

  • Flaps are set to FULL

  • Gear is DOWN

We recommend to set the flaps to FULL shortly before intercepting the glideslope otherwise you will end up in a long horizontal flight with deployed spoilers and high N1.

If the conditions are no longer present during the approach, the steep approach mode is automatically deactivated.

Landing

For a proper flare and touchdown while in steep approach mode you need to consider:

  • Start the flare earlier.

  • Initial flare is with power on.

  • High tailstrike risk.

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