If you’re a seasoned flight simulation enthusiast or simply want to experience the thrill of operating one of the most iconic aircraft in history, the Boeing 737-800, then X-Plane 10 offers an unparalleled and immersive experience. With its realistic flight dynamics and detailed cockpit, the 737 X-Plane 10 is designed to provide a truly captivating simulation. Whether you’re a novice pilot or a seasoned veteran, mastering the startup procedure is the first essential step in embarking on your virtual flight journey.
To initiate the startup process, you’ll need to ensure that your aircraft is properly positioned and configured. Begin by placing the aircraft on a runway or taxiway, ensuring the parking brake is engaged and the throttle is set to idle. Next, verify that the battery and external power are connected, as they will provide the necessary electrical power for subsequent steps. As you proceed, remember to remain vigilant and follow the startup checklist meticulously to guarantee a safe and successful flight.
With the aircraft in place and the electrical systems online, the next phase involves activating the flight controls. Start by switching on the avionics master switch, which will power up the navigation and communication systems. Subsequently, verify the proper operation of the flight controls by moving the yoke, rudder pedals, and trim wheels. Ensure that all controls respond smoothly and accurately, as they are pivotal for maintaining aircraft stability and maneuverability during flight.
Powering Up Electrical Systems
1. Battery
Locate the BATTERY switch on the overhead panel and turn it to the ON position. This will power the electrical systems of the aircraft.
2. Generator
Once the battery is turned on, the generators can be started. There are two generators on the 737: the left generator and the right generator. To start a generator, follow these steps:
- Locate the GENERATOR switch for the desired generator.
- Turn the switch to the ON position.
- Monitor the GENERATOR BUS voltmeter to ensure that the generator is providing power.
| Generator | Switch Location |
|---|---|
| Left Generator | Overhead panel, left side |
| Right Generator | Overhead panel, right side |
3. Transformer Rectifier Units (TRUs)
The TRUs convert AC power from the generators to DC power for use by the aircraft’s electrical systems. There are two TRUs on the 737: the left TRU and the right TRU. To turn on a TRU, follow these steps:
- Locate the TRU switch for the desired TRU.
- Turn the switch to the ON position.
- Monitor the TRU voltmeter to ensure that the TRU is providing power.
| TRU | Switch Location |
|---|---|
| Left TRU | Overhead panel, left side |
| Right TRU | Overhead panel, right side |
Engine Start Procedures
1. Before Starting the Engines
Ensure that the following conditions are met before initiating engine start procedures:
- Aircraft is properly secured and chocked.
- Fuel switches are set to the desired fuel tank.
- Battery and external power are connected.
- Master switch is ON.
2. Starting the Engines
To start the engines, follow these steps:
- Set the engine master switch to the START position.
- Monitor engine parameters during start-up.
- Once the engine has stabilized, release the starter switch.
3. Engine Stabilization
After the engine has started, it is critical to stabilize it before proceeding. This involves:
- Monitoring engine parameters (e.g., RPM, N1, EGT, fuel flow) to ensure they are within acceptable limits.
- Adjusting the throttle lever as necessary to maintain the desired idle RPM.
- Checking for and troubleshooting any abnormal indications or warning messages.
- Verifying that all engine-driven systems (e.g., hydraulics, electrical) are functioning properly.
The following table summarizes the key engine parameters to monitor during engine stabilization:
| Parameter | Normal Range |
|---|---|
| RPM | 65-70% |
| N1 | 75-80% |
| EGT | 500-600°C |
| Fuel Flow | 600-700 kg/hr |
Once the engine is stabilized, you can proceed with the remaining pre-flight procedures and prepare for takeoff.
Avionics and Navigation Setup
1. Power Up the Aircraft
- Turn on the battery by toggling the "Battery" switch on the overhead panel.
- Activate the electrical systems by setting the "Electrical" switch to "ON."
- Start the engines by following the engine start procedure.
2. Configure the Flight Management System (FMS)
- Navigate to the "FMS" page on the CDU (Control Display Unit).
- Enter the departure and destination airports, departure time, and preferred route.
- Review the flight plan and make any necessary adjustments.
3. Set the Autopilot
- Engage the autopilot by pressing the "AP" button on the control yoke.
- Select the appropriate autopilot mode (e.g., HDG, NAV, VNAV).
- Adjust the altitude, airspeed, and heading targets as desired.
4. Configure the Navigation Displays
Primary Flight Display (PFD):
- Set the PFD to display the flight path, altitude, airspeed, and heading.
- Adjust the range and scale of the navigation map to provide the necessary situational awareness.
Navigation Display (ND):
- Select the appropriate map mode (e.g., Enroute, Terminal).
- Zoom in and out to display the desired level of detail.
- Place navigation markers (e.g., waypoints, airports) to aid in navigation.
Multi-Function Display (MFD):
- Display tactical information such as weather, traffic, and system status.
- Use the MFD for situational awareness, conflict detection, and ATC communications.
| Display | Function |
|---|---|
| PFD | Flight path, altitude, airspeed, heading |
| ND | Map display, navigation markers |
| MFD | Weather, traffic, system status |
Climb and Cruise Management
Climb
Climb the aircraft at 250 knots and an initial climb rate of 1,500 ft. per minute. Reduce the climb rate to 1,000 ft. per minute passing 10,000 ft. and maintain 250 knots until reaching your cruise altitude.
Cruise
Select your desired cruise speed and altitude in the autopilot. Engage the autopilot once you reach your cruise altitude. Monitor the aircraft’s performance and make adjustments as necessary to maintain your desired speed and altitude.
Fuel Management
The 737 has a total of six fuel tanks: two in the wings, two in the fuselage, and two in the tail. The fuel tanks are interconnected and can be used to balance the aircraft’s weight and center of gravity. The fuel system is controlled by a fuel management computer that automatically transfers fuel between the tanks.
| Fuel Tank |
|---|
| Left Wing |
| Right Wing |
| Left Fuselage |
| Right Fuselage |
| Left Tail |
| Right Tail |
Landing
As the aircraft approaches the runway, gradually reduce power to idle and extend the flaps and landing gear. Maintain a steady glide path and target a touchdown point approximately 1,000 feet from the threshold.
Upon touchdown, gently apply the brakes and maintain directional control with the rudder. Once the aircraft slows to approximately 60 knots, engage reverse thrust to decelerate further.
Rollout
Continue applying reverse thrust until the aircraft reaches a safe taxi speed. Disengage reverse thrust and allow the aircraft to roll to a stop. Steer the aircraft to the designated taxiway and exit the runway.
Parking
Once clear of the runway, select a parking spot and position the aircraft accordingly. Engage the parking brake and turn off the engines. Ensure that the aircraft is properly secured before disembarking.
Additional Notes
Remember to adjust power and flap settings as needed based on aircraft weight and wind conditions.
If using autobrakes, ensure they are set to a suitable level for the landing conditions.
Be aware of other aircraft in the vicinity and maintain proper spacing during landing and taxiing.
| Landing Gear | Flaps | Speed (knots) |
|---|---|---|
| Down | Full | 120 |
| Down | 30° | 90 |
| Down | 20° | 70 |
Shutdown Procedures
1. Preparation
Before shutting down the 737, it’s important to ensure the aircraft is in a stable and safe condition. Slow the aircraft, configure it for landing, and extend the flaps and landing gear.
2. Engine Shutdown
Once the aircraft is ready for shutdown, begin by reducing the throttle levers to idle. Then, shut down each engine individually using the appropriate switches on the overhead panel.
3. Electrical Shutdown
After the engines are shut down, proceed with the electrical shutdown. Turn off the battery and auxiliary power unit (APU) switches, and the aircraft will lose electrical power.
4. Hydraulic Shutdown
Next, shut down the hydraulic systems. Close the hydraulic isolation valves and switch off the hydraulic pumps.
5. Avionics Shutdown
Power down the avionics systems by turning off the navigation, communication, and other electronic devices.
6. Lights and Systems Shutdown
Turn off all lights, including the landing, navigation, and cabin lights. Also, shut down any other systems that are not essential for shutdown.
7. Fuel System Shutdown
Cross-feed the fuel tanks and shut off the fuel valves to isolate the fuel system.
8. Trim Shutdown
Neutralize the rudder and elevator trims to ensure proper aircraft balance.
9. Parking Brake
Engage the parking brake to prevent the aircraft from rolling.
10. Exterior Checks and Securing
Exit the aircraft and perform a thorough exterior inspection. Secure the doors, hatches, and cargo compartments. Remove the pitot covers and chock the wheels to prevent the aircraft from moving.
| Task | Sequence |
|---|---|
| Reduce throttle to idle | 1 |
| Shut down left engine | 2 |
| Shut down right engine | 3 |
| Turn off battery | 4 |
| Turn off APU | 5 |
| Close hydraulic isolation valves | 6 |
| Turn off hydraulic pumps | 7 |
| Turn off avionics systems | 8 |
| Turn off lights | 9 |
| Cross-feed fuel tanks | 10 |
| Shut off fuel valves | 11 |
| Neutralize rudder and elevator trims | 12 |
| Engage parking brake | 13 |
| Exit aircraft | 14 |
| Perform exterior checks | 15 |
| Secure doors, hatches, cargo compartments | 16 |
| Remove pitot covers | 17 |
| Chock wheels | 18 |
How to Start a Boeing 737 in X-Plane 10
Step 1: Load the 737 into X-Plane 10.
Step 2: Set the parking brake.
Step 3: Turn on the battery.
Step 4: Turn on the avionics.
Step 5: Set the flaps to 15 degrees.
Step 6: Set the trim to the takeoff setting.
Step 7: Start the left engine.
Step 8: Start the right engine.
Step 9: Release the parking brake.
Step 10: Advance the throttles to takeoff power.
Step 11: Rotate the aircraft to a climb attitude.
Step 12: Retract the flaps and landing gear.
People Also Ask
How do you start a Boeing 737 with checklists?
To start a Boeing 737 with checklists, follow these steps:
- Load the 737 into X-Plane 10.
- Set the parking brake.
- Turn on the battery.
- Turn on the avionics.
- Complete the Before Start Checklist.
- Complete the Engine Start Checklist.
- Release the parking brake.
- Advance the throttles to takeoff power.
- Rotate the aircraft to a climb attitude.
- Retract the flaps and landing gear.
- Complete the After Takeoff Checklist.
What are the controls for the Boeing 737 in X-Plane 10?
The controls for the Boeing 737 in X-Plane 10 are as follows:
- Throttle: Controls the power of the engines.
- Flaps: Controls the lift and drag of the aircraft.
- Trim: Controls the pitch and roll of the aircraft.
- Yoke: Controls the pitch and roll of the aircraft.
- Rudder: Controls the yaw of the aircraft.
- Brakes: Controls the speed of the aircraft.
- Landing gear: Controls the position of the landing gear.
- Spoilers: Controls the lift and drag of the aircraft.
- Ailerons: Controls the roll of the aircraft.
