PMDG 737 Flight Preparation Guide

Aug 31, 2024

PMDG 737 Tutorial Notes

Introduction

  • Warm welcome to the PMDG 737 tutorial for Microsoft Flight Simulator.
  • Presenter: Emmanuel, member of PMDG tech team and real-life Boeing 737 pilot.
  • Flight route: London Stansted to Dublin Airport, commonly flown by Ryanair.
  • Tutorials aimed at users with intermediate knowledge of airliners and flight operations.

Flight Deck Procedures

  • Focus on practical procedures adapted from real-life operations.
  • Overview of the flight deck inspection and preliminary procedures, including walk-around checks.
  • Series will cover entire flight process over the next few weeks.

Flight Deck Safety Inspection

  1. Arrival at the Airplane

    • General overview of the airplane.
    • Check surfaces and shocks.
    • Maintenance status check via flight management computer.
    • Turn on battery, check hydraulic pump switches, landing gear lever, and documentation.
    • Enable ground power if available.
  2. Fire Tests

    • Conduct fault and up detection test.
    • Perform fire test for engines and APU.
    • Check fire bottles: two for engines and one for APU.
  3. Emergency Equipment Checks

    • Arm emergency exit lights.
    • Check cabin and attendant call system.
    • Confirm flap lever and takeoff configuration warning.
    • Check cargo fire system.
    • Examine circuit breakers and ensure escape rope is in place.
    • Test flight recorder.
  4. Engine and System Checks

    • Ensure engine panel lights are off, ECS is on.
    • Check passenger oxygen switch and ensure pressure is sufficient.
    • Verify GPS light and turn on IRS.

Walk-Around Inspection

  • Turn on hydraulic pumps for better leak detection.
  • Check probes (true air temperature, pitot, and angle of attack) for damage or blockage.
  • General overview and wheel well inspection for steering mechanisms and potential debris.
  • Check all doors closed and latched (external power, cargo, APU).
  1. Engine Checks

    • Inspect engine thrust reverser pins and fan blades for damage or debris.
    • Ensure engine oil access door is closed and latched.
    • Check for any signs of bird strikes.
  2. Wing and Tail Checks

    • Confirm winglet and leading edge flaps are undamaged.
    • Inspect static discharges and wing lights.
    • Verify elevator and stabilizer integrity and absence of blockages.
  3. Wheel and Hydraulic Checks

    • Inspect wheels for damage and brake wear indicators.
    • Check for hydraulic leaks in wheel well.
  4. Final Steps

    • Confirm all access doors for lavatory services are closed.
    • Ensure no wildlife or obstructions before heading back to the flight deck.

Conclusion

  • Preliminary safety inspection and walk-around procedures complete.
  • Further flight preparation to be covered in the next video.
  • Thank you for joining the tutorial!