Out of curiosity (and a bit of boredom) I decided to create a Top of Descent (TOD) calculator partially with the help of AI. The calculator uses the same basic formulas that are explained in the Infinite Flight tutorial video on YouTube.
While flying in Infinite Flight I often found myself estimating when to start descending, so I created this tool to make that process quicker and easier. @DotWallop has provided valuable assistance with both the website and coding as well.
The calculator asks for a few inputs.:
Inputs
Current (cruising) altitude
Target altitude (the altitude you want to descend to)
Current ground speed
Headwind or tailwind component
Using this information the calculator provides:
Outputs
Estimated Top of Descent distance
Recommended vertical speed for the descent
Recent improvements
Option to set a target descent rate (if required)
Ability to subtract waypoint distance from the TOD
General improvements to the website and calculations
The calculator is mainly intended as a quick and practical tool while flying, rather than a perfectly precise real-world performance calculation.
I always start my descent at around 2200 - 2500 ft/m. If it’s too much ft/m you could start the descent sooner! I’m working on a way to add this feature!
It’s a estimation of the general FPM you’re gonna need during the whole descent. It’s rough, but it’s a very common rule of thumb. It’s literally just GS * 5
We are happy to announce a new function has been added to the TOD Calculator.
You can now enter your current headwind or tailwind to receive more realistic Top of Descent distances. This allows for more accurate descent planning and improves overall realism.
This new wind input feature has been developed by @DotWallop. Many thanks for the contribution.
We would like to announce that the TOD Calculator has received a new user interface.
The updated UI is cleaner, more modern, simplified, and easier to use, improving the overall user experience while keeping all existing features unchanged.
Take a look at the link in the top message!
Disclaimer: This website was partiallycreated with the help of AI.
The UI looks gamified, idk if it’s just me but not on to that. Would love to see a more simplified approach to the UI. Also why not try making like u can put ur FPL(created in SimBrief or wtvr) into the site the site then shows u ur route and then it makes an estimated TOD based on the FPL, u can then even see your own flight on that map if you begin to fly, would love to see this. Cheers
Another update has been added to the TOD Calculator. You can now enter your target descent rate, allowing the calculator to calculate an even more accurate TOD distance.
A deceleration buffer has also been added. When you descend below FL100, the calculator adjusts the distance to account for the aircraft slowing down.
Take a look at the link in the top message!
Disclaimer: This website was partiallycreated with the help of AI.
