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4.6 Cruise

Objective

To maintain a stable and efficient flight at cruise altitude.

Establishing Cruise

  • Aircraft levels off at cruise altitude
  • Thrust reduces automatically

Autopilot & Automation

  • Autopilot engaged
  • Managed speed (Mach mode typically active)

Cruise Speed Management

During cruise, the aircraft should remain in Managed Speed Mode under normal conditions.

Standard Procedure

    Autopilot → ENGAGED Speed Mode → MANAGED (Mach mode)

    The aircraft automatically optimizes:

      Fuel efficiency Speed profile

      Exceptions

      Selected speed may only be used if:

        ATC assigns a specific speed Turbulence requires speed adjustment Operational considerations demand deviation

        Monitoring Duties

        Both pilots:

        • Monitor flight progress
        • Check fuel consumption
        • Verify route

        Systems Monitoring (PM)

        • ECAM parameters normal
        • FuelMonitor balanceMach correctnumber and fuel consumption
        • NoEnsure warningscompliance orwith cautionsATC instructions
        Detect any unexpected automation behavior

        Navigation

        • Follow programmed route
        • Monitor for deviations

        ATC Interaction

        • Maintain assigned altitude and speed
        • Respond to new clearances

        Situational Awareness

        • Monitor weather
        • Anticipate descent planning

        Key Principles

        • “Let the aircraft manage efficiency – intervene only when necessary.”
        Stay ahead of the aircraft Avoid complacency Continuously cross-check systems
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