C-130 Tutorial PDF

Tutorial by Bernardo Srulzon -- www.fsstation.
com
Captain Sim C-130 Hercules - Flight Tutorial
Introduction
With the increasing level of automation of Flight Simulator add-ons seen nearly everyday, an alarming number of people
are forgetting the basic aspects of navigation. They can program an FMC and use the automated systems flawlessly, but
you had better not ask them to perform a standard-rate coordinated turn or even fly a non-precision approach manually.
All the information they need are on the digital displays and the systems are not likely to fail - what they get is a false
sense of realism and enjoyment.
The Captain Sim C-130 Hercules is one of the very few realistic and visually detailed military aircraft add-ons for Microsoft
Flight Simulator available today. What makes this aircraft special to me is that you truly need some piloting skills in order
to complete a successful fight - it's not rocket science, but it's certainly harder than pushing the right buttons at the right
times! Due the C-130 Hercules great complexity, we have decided to write a complete flight tutorial with plenty of
pictures and easy to understand information. If you are willing to learn how this beautiful classic aircraft works, you are in
the right place! Enough talking, let's get it started!
Briefing
In this tutorial, I'll guide you though a flight from the active C-130 base of Little Rock (KLRF - Jacksonville, AK) to the
active C-130 base of Dyess (KDYS - Abilene, TX). This flight is about 450 nautical miles long and it should take 1h 30min
to be completed. We will fly the C-130E at the typical altitude of 20,000 ft, navigate using VORs and finally land with the
assistance of an ILS. For this flight, you will need about 45% of fuel in all tanks, which results in a total fuel weight of
21,100lbs and a gross weight of about 110,000lbs.
This is the route we will be following in this flight: KLRF (departure airport) -> LIT (113.90) -> BYP (114.60) ->
FUZ (115.70) -> ABI (113.70) -> KDYS (arrival airport)
If you would like to use ATC service supplied in FS you can use the IFR flightplan supplied. I'd also like to recommend
that you download (and print, if possible) two files: 1. C-130E Checklist // 2. C-130E Takeoff and Landing Speeds - they
will be needed later. These are free to download but you will need to set up a free account and log in to be able to
download these files.
In order to start in a cold and dark cockpit state, load the IFR Flightplan; IFR Little Rock AFB to Dyess AFB using the
default Cessna 172. After you shut have down its engine, battery and avionics go to the Aircraft > Select Aircraft
menu and choose your favourite C-130E livery. Slew yourself to an available parking spot and load the fuel by going to
the Aircraft > Fuel and Payload menu. You are now ready to start!
Cockpit inspection
! At this point, I assume you have your C-130E parked at a Little Rock AFB (KLRF) parking spot with everything shut
down and the IFR Flightplan loaded in case you want ATC in FS !
The airplane comes almost fully prepared for operation; you only need to change a few settings in the hydraulic system,
the fuel system and the throttle quadrant.
Tutorial by Bernardo Srulzon -- www.fsstation.com
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- In the hydraulic system (R1 icon):
1. BRAKE SELECT switch - EMERGENCY
That will force the airplane to supply auxiliary hydraulic pressure (rather than utility hydraulic pressure) to the brakes,
allowing them to be used with the engines off.
2. ANTI-SKID switch - OFF
Anti-skid will not function when the brake system is operating from the auxiliary hydraulic pressure (engines off) or when
the parking brake is set.
- In the throttle quadrant (propeller icon):
1. TEMP DATUM CONTROL VALVES switches - AUTO
Permits normal operation of the electronic temperature datum control system.
2. Condition levers, throttles GRD STOP, GRD IDLE
This ensures the blade angle is set to minimum thrust and that the engines will not start. Nacelle preheat is operable in
this configuration.
Before start
After you have inspected the aircraft's interior and exterior, it's time to power it up and put some light into the dark
cockpit. In this stage, we will configure several systems in order to get the aircraft ready for engine start-up.
We have basically two ways of powering the aircraft: using external power from a ground power trolley or using the
battery. For this tutorial, we will use ground power, but you may also use the battery if you want to. Go to the Captain
Sim menu in FS and activate the ground power unit - a green message bar will briefly appear to confirm your selection.
It's time to power it up and start systems configuration.
- In the electrical system (upper OH icon):
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1. External AC power switch - EXT AC PWR
Align the knob's yellow stripe with the panel's yellow stripe. That will connect external power to the AC distribution
system. When using the battery, this switch remains in the OFF position.
2. External DC power switch - EXT DC PWR
Align the knob's green stripe with the panel's green stripe. That will connect external power to the DC bus. If you are
going to use the battery, place the switch in the BATTERY position.
3. Turn the instrument and panel lights on
Now that you have electrical power, make instruments clearer by turning the lights on. The lights on/off switches are
located on the pilot's side shelf (in the virtual cockpit)
4. *Only do this step when using the battery*- Bus tie switch - TIED
This provides a means for powering the main ac bus from the ATM generator during ground operation with no enginedriven generators supplying power. This is not needed when using external power, since it also powers the AC bus.
5. Inverters - OFF
Both "Co-pilot AC Instruments" and "AC instrument and Engine" switches should be placed in the OFF position until we
have electrical power.
- In the radio stack (radio mast/tower icon):
1. Radios - ON
Not much to say here. With the radios on, you can communicate with ATC and change frequencies.
Now that you have electrical power, it's time to start the Gas Turbine Compressor (GTC). The GTC supplies air for ground
operation of the air turbine motor, engine starting, nacelle preheat and air-conditioning systems. It is essential for a
correct engine start-up and makes possible the ATM (Air Turbine Motor) operation, for those of you using the battery.
The ATM supplies AC power to the aircraft (battery supplies DC power) - it will not be needed if you are using external
power, since it also powers the AC bus.
- In the GTC control panel (Upper OH icon):
1. Start GTC - STARTING
This require several steps;
1.1. Open the GTC intake door in order to allow GTC start-up. The "NOT CLOSED" indicator should illuminate.
1.2. Turn the GTC control switch to the START position. It will go back to "RUN" and the "START" light goes on.
1.3. Wait until the ON SPEED light goes on. This light indicates that the GTC is operating normally and load can finally be
applied.
1.4. Open the bleed air valve. This forces the GTC to supply air to the bleed-air system, which will be used to pressurize
and condition the climate of the aircraft, and also for engine start-up.
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2. *Only do this step when using the battery* START ATM - STARTING
This require two steps:
2.1. Start the ATM by placing the ATM control switch to the ON position.
2.1. Connect the ATM generator by placing the generator switch in the RESET, ON position. This will supply power to the
essential AC bus.
- In the electrical system (Upper OH icon):
1. Inverters - SET
This require two steps:
1.1. Co-pilot inverter switch - ESSENTIAL AC BUS
Align the knob's yellow stripe with the panel's yellow stripe.
1.2. AC INST & ENGINE FUEL CONTROL INVERTER switch - ESSENTIAL DC BUS
Align the knob's yellow stripe with panel's green stripe.
At this point, you will see that the OFF flag on the attitude indicator has disappeared. Let's continue with the
configuration...
- In the lower overhead panel (lower OH icon):
1. Fuel enrichment switches - OFF

2. Oil cooler flaps - AUTOMATIC
These settings leaves the function of opening and closing the oil cooler flaps automatically to the aircraft. In temperatures
above 27C, leave the oil cooler flaps are completely open.
1. SUCTION BOOST PUMP switches - ON/LIGHTS OUT
After you turn the suction boost pumps on, make sure its warning lights have gone off.
2. AUX PUMP switch - ON
With the auxiliary pump ON, you will be able to use the emergency brake system to hold the aircraft until the engines are
started.
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--- RUN THE BEFORE STARTING CHECKLIST --Starting engines

You have successfully configured the aircraft for engine start now. At this point, we will start all four engines (in the 3-42-1 sequence) and make some of the final configuration changes to the aircraft systems before starting to taxi. You may
now turn your anti-collision lights ON - they indicate that the engines are being started. Let's proceed with engine start!
- In the throttle quadrant (in the virtual cockpit only):
1. Low Speed Ground Buttons - LOW
The low speed ground buttons are only available in the virtual cockpit. Lowering them will down-shift the engines,
reducing the RPM and therefore wear. After the engine is stable, you can UP the buttons and connect the generator.
- In the bleed air system (Upper OH icon):
1. Engine bleed air switch - OPEN
This will provide bleed air for the engines to start.

1. Condition lever - RUN
In the RUN position, the engine will attempt a start when the start button is pushed.
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You can now go to the lower overhead panel (Lower OH icon) and press the engine ground start button for the engine
you want to start. Hold the button until you see a rise in the engine's parameters, then release it and wait for the engine
to stabilise. You have just started the first engine!
1. Engine generator switch - ON
Remember to UP the ground speed low buttons now. Place the switch in the RESET position, then ON. The engine will be
used to provide electrical power to the aircraft when the generator is online.
2. DC power switch - BATTERY
Since the external power will be disconnected soon and electrical power is available from the generator, switch the DC
power switch to the BATTERY position.
- In the GTC control panel (Upper OH icon):
1. Close the bleed air valve
We will now use the bleed air coming from the engine #1 to start all other engines. The GTC bleed air is not needed
further..
* Start engine #4 using the procedures marked in red colour above *
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- In the GTC control panel and in the electrical system (Upper OH icon):
1. Disconnect the ATM generator (battery users only).

2. Stop the ATM (battery users only).
The ATM will not be needed further, the engines are now powering the aircraft.
3. Stop the GTC
This requires two other steps;
3.1. Turn the GTC control switch to the OFF position.

3.2. Close the GTC door
- In the pressurisation system (Upper OH icon):
1. Air conditioning master switch AIR COND NO PRESS
This setting will turn the air conditioning on, but not yet pressurise the aircraft.
1. External AC power switch - OFF
This will disconnect the external power from the AC distribution system. The engines are now providing power to the
aircraft.
You can now go the the Captain Sim menu in FS and remove the external power. You no longer need external power
since your engines 3 and 4 are running and there is enough power onboard already.
* Start engine #2 and #1 using the procedures marked in red colour above*
--- RUN THE STARTING ENGINES CHECKLIST ---
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Before taxi
We now have the engines started, but we are not yet ready to fly. We still need to configure the instruments and prepare
the navigation equipment - it's not nice to get lost when you're airborne! Everything must be perfect before takeoff.
Let's review our flight plan first: KLRF (departure airport) -> LIT (113.90) -> BYP (114.60) -> FUZ (115.70) ->
ABI (113.70) -> KDYS (arrival airport)
You can start by tuning to the clearance delivery (132.80) frequency and requesting an IFR clearance. Take note of the
runway in use, the squawk code and the local altimeter pressure. After obtaining the clearance, we can work on setting
up the aircraft for VOR navigation and also configure the transponder.
- In the radio stack (Radio stack/tower icon):
Tune the VOR frequency for the LITTLE ROCK VOR (LIT - 113.90) on both NAV1 and NAV2 radios. With the
frequency tuned, the aircraft will get DME and bearing information from this VOR. You will be able to track a selected
radial and know your distance from the station in the HSI (horizontal situation indicator), located in the main panel. We
will discuss how to navigate later on the tutorial.
- In the IFF/SSR panel (SSR icon):
1. Set the squawk code you received from the controller using the MODE 3/A/B code select switches
2. Place the Mode C switch in the ON position
3. Turn the Mode 3/A knob to the 3/A position
4. Turn the Master Control knob to the STBY position
These four steps will set-up the transponder and place it in standby mode. It will also allow controllers to know your
present altitude.
Now that you have tuned the VOR, it's time to set the radial you want to follow. Since you want to go directly from the
LITTLE ROCK VOR (LIT) to the BONHAM VOR (BYP), your only option is to track the 246 radial from the former
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station. More detailed instructions on how to get to the LITTLE ROCK VOR and how to navigate will be presented later.
You will also want to set the heading bug to the runway's heading - it will help you keep the same heading after takeoff.
- In the Horizontal Situation Indicator, Radar Altimeter and Barometric Altimeter (pilot's panel or co-pilots panel (L or R icon):
1. Turn the COURSE SET knob until the course selector window reads 246
2. Turn the HEADING SET knob until the heading bug is pointing to the active runway's heading
3. Rotate the Radar Altimeter knob to put it into operation
The radar altimeter measures your height above the ground. It is very useful for ILS approaches, as the decision height is
given in "feet above ground level".
4. Ensure the Barometric Altimeter is properly configured with the local altimeter setting by rotating its small knob.
Having the local altimeter setting correctly configured avoids altitude indication errors.
- In the flap control system (Flap picture icon):
1. Set the flaps to 50%
Fifty percent is the normal take-off flap position. All normal take-offs are made with this flap setting.
--- RUN THE BEFORE TAXI CHECKLIST ---
Taxi
With the engines started and the instruments configured, we finally have permission to leave the stand and taxi to the
active runway! However, we still need to configure a few systems before and during taxi. Because of the wind direction,
I'll be taxiing to the runway 7.
- In the hydraulics system (R1 icon):
1. Brakes - NORMAL / ANTI-SKID ON
Since all engines are started and we have utility hydraulic pressure, change the brake system to normal and turn anti-skid
ON. Check if they are working properly.
Before taxi, it is good practice is to down-shift the outboard engines to low speed ground idle, just like we did before
engine start. They reduce the engine's wear and also reduce the total power of the aircraft, allowing us to taxi at lower
speeds. The engines will be automatically up-shifted when takeoff power is applied.
It is finally time to taxi! If the aircraft is parked in a position that requires pushback, use reverse thrust to move the
aircraft backwards. Yes, reverse thrust... you won't need a pushback tug, since the engines are powerful enough to even
allow parallel parking! Once you get far enough, use forward thrust to start taxiing to the active runway. There is nothing
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much to say about taxiing... just follow your assigned taxiways, maintain a fair speed and try not to use the brakes very
often. There are, however, many items that need to be checked or configured while taxiing.
- General:
1. Turn the taxi lights on
2. Check if all doors are closed
3. Check if the flaps are set to 50% (take-off configuration)
4. Check if engine instruments are all in the green band
The green band indicates that a specific indication is operating normally.
5. Check if the flight controls are free and responding to inputs by moving the yoke in all positions
6. Check if the radios are set and the NAV1/NAV2 are tuned with the LITTLE ROCK VOR frequency (113.90)
7. Check if the instruments (HSI, altimeter, radio altimeter, etc.) are set and operating normally
1. Cabin Pressure Controller - 6000 FEET
Since we'll be flying in FL200 and there is not much oxygen there, we need to pressurise the cabin. Setting the cabin
pressure to 6000ft will allow passengers to breath normally.
2. Air conditioning master switch AIR COND AUTO PRESS
The cabin will be climatised and automatically pressurized to 6000ft. No matter how high we go, the passengers will
breath just like they were at 6000ft.
- In the electrical system:
1. Check if all generators are on (except for the ATM generator) and the GTC is off
This will ensure that all engines are providing electrical power to the aircraft.
2. DC bus tie switch - NORMAL
(Only if you had tied the switch before). The main AC bus is now being powered by the engines...
- In the anti-icing system (Upper OH icon):
1. NESA windshield switches - NORMAL
The NESA is used to heat the cockpit's windshield and windows in order to prevent icing.
2. PITOT HEAT switches - ON
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The pitot heat prevents ice from forming in the pitot tubes. If ice accumulates in the Pitot tube, vital instruments such as
the vertical speed indicator, airspeed indicator, and so forth will be lost.
3. PROP & ENG ANTI-ICING - ON
This prevents ice from building in the propellers. With the master switch in the auto position, the system will only be
activated when icing conditions exist.
4. ENGINE INLET AIR DUCT ANTI-ICING - ON
This prevents ice from building in the engine inlet air duct. With the master switch in the auto position, the system will
only be activated when icing conditions exist.
1. Turn the Master Control knob to the NORM position
This allows operation of the system at normal receiver sensitivity. It will also allow controllers to know your present
altitude and location.
Finally, we'll configure the TCAS (Traffic Alert Avoidance System):
- In the TCAS panel (Rdr icon):
1. Function selector switch TCAS
This will turn the radar on. You will see the radar display light up and traffic will eventually start to show up conflict
resolution advisory is also active. We didn't turn the TCAS on before because its antenna emits radiation, which is
hazardous to the ground personnel. Refer to the manual for correct TCAS operation and usage.
--- RUN THE TAXI CHECKLIST --A little break for the take-off briefing!
This is probably the most important part of the tutorial yet. You may very well know how to prepare the aircraft for
takeoff, but it is extremely important that you have it very clear in your mind what to do in case of an emergency and
how to start navigating! Please read this section carefully - after all this preparation, you most likely don't
want to get lost in the sky!
Before entering the runway, you need to calculate your takeoff speed. Find your VTO using the "C-130E Takeoff and
Landing Speed" chart you downloaded - note that the speeds are directly proportional to the gross weights and all the
data is based on a flap 50% configuration. Our takeoff speed will be 96 knots, since our aircraft's gross weight is
110,000lbs. Now that you have this information, it's time to brief the take-off procedure!
As you enter the runway, turn the strobe lights on - they inform the tower and other aircraft that you are entering an
active runway. Soon after you are given a take-off clearance, gradually advance the throttles toward maximum power and
move the yoke column slightly forward in order to increase steering effectiveness. At a speed of 50~60 knots, move the
yoke column back to neutral. You should also use the rudder to steer the aircraft on the runway until lift-off. As soon as
you reach the take-off speed (96 knots in our case), pull back gently but positively on the yoke and start the rotation.
Initially, rotate to an attitude of 5~7 degrees pitch up (keep that until clear of the ground), then to an attitude that allows
you to maintain the initial climb speed (20~30 knots above takeoff speed) at take-off thrust - that will be around 15
degrees. Make the necessary corrections as you climb.
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When airborne, retract the landing gear and keep climbing at the initial climb speed (20~30 knots above takeoff speed).
Also, maintain the runway heading (you have the heading bug set on the HSI) until crossing the airport's boundary. Now
I want to introduce you to the radio magnetic indicator (RMI) - it will be essential for us to start navigating!
The RMI is a green instrument located on the bottom-right side of the panel composed by two arrows (one big, one
small). Its main purpose is to indicate the location of a VOR or NDB station - the arrow will point to the direction the
station is located. "How does that help me?", you ask... well, we need to know where the LITTLE ROCK VOR is located
so that we can track (follow) one of its radials (radial 246 for this flight). Without a RMI, it would be impossible to track
this radial; we simply wouldn't know where the station is!
Just after takeoff, you'll notice that the larger RMI needle is pointing to one side. What you need to do is turn (after
crossing the airport's boundary) so that the needle points forward in the same direction as the aircrafts nose. Then, you'll
be heading exactly to the station and you'll be able to finally intercept and track the radial 246. While turning to the
station, you should also take careful control of your altitude and speed. Keep climbing at 20~30 knots above takeoff
speed and start to gradually retract the flaps and accelerate (also gradually!) to 180 knots. At this point, you will be
heading to the VOR station, with the flaps retracted and climbing at 180 knots. It's finally time to intercept and track the
selected radial. Take a close look at the DME... don't wait for the bearing needle to move to start a turn to intercept the
radial - it will move very fast and you'll most likely miss it, so start the turn a little earlier. Well, there's no real problem if
you don't catch the radial on the first try, just make the necessary adjustments and remember not to bank more than 30
degrees.
Please read this section once more - it is extremely important that you fully understand what you are supposed to do
before the actual take-off!
Take-off
Now that you have your aircraft completely prepared and you know what to do after take-off, it's time to set take-off
thrust and have some fun! Since we've already briefed the take-off and initial climb procedure, I'll not be very detailed
here - much of the information you need for the take-off were already presented in the briefing section.
When cleared for take-off/position and hold, turn the strobe lights on and enter the runway - you may want to run the
line-up checklist here. If you are not going to takeoff immediately, set the brakes to ON and wait for your take-off
clearance. Once you have been cleared, release the brakes and set takeoff thrust. Keep tracking the runway centreline
using the rudder. The aircraft will accelerate fast and it shouldn't take too long for the take-off speed to be reached. At
the take-off speed, rotate the aircraft to about 7 degrees, retract the landing gear and make the necessary pitch
corrections so that the aircraft can maintain a speed of 20~30 knots above takeoff speed. You are now in a safe speed,
climbing away from the airport (but still heading on the runway heading). The take-off is as simple as that!
- In the hydraulics system (R1 icon):
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1. Auxiliary hydraulic pump switch - OFF
We aren't using the brakes now, so the auxiliary pump is not needed anymore.
--- RUN THE AFTER TAKEOFF CHECKLIST ---
Climb
Once you get past the airport's boundary, start turning towards the LITTLE ROCK VOR station - use the RMI needle as
reference, the bigger needle should be pointing straight forward. While performing the climb, monitor the airspeed
indicator, attitude indicator and the RMI closely; at an altitude of 1000~2000ft above ground level (check the radar
altimeter!), start to gradually retract the flaps and accelerate to the initial climb speed of 180 knots. I also want you to
monitor the DME so that you can know how far you are from the station. Don't wait for the bearing needle to move
before turning to intercept the radial; start a shallow turn to reduce the intercept angle when you get closer to the
station. It is a lot easier to intercept a radial that is only 10 degrees far from you than a one that is 90 degrees far from
you. Don't perform steep turns if you miss the radial, just make the necessary corrections to intercept it as soon as
possible - there is no need to panic or bank the aircraft excessively. Also, remember to reset the altimeter pressure
setting when climbing though FL180 (18,000 feet).
The climb speed is not fixed; we will climb at different speeds in different stages of the climb. Use the chart below to
determine the appropriate climb speed.
Altitude
Speed
- From takeoff until starting flap retraction
- Takeoff speed + 20~30 knots
- From flap retraction to 10,000ft
- 180 knots
- From 10,000ft to 15,000ft
- 170 knots
- From 15,000ft to 20,000ft
- 160 knots
- 20,000ft (cruise)
- 290 knots (true airspeed)
At this point, I assume that you have approached the VOR station and turned right to intercept and track the 246 radial. I
also expect that you are climbing on the radial with the appropriate speed (refer to the chart above). If you have really
reached this point with no major problems, congratulations - you are a truly skilled pilot!!!
Time for some coffee - Using the autopilot
I encourage you to fly manually as much as possible, but since this part can get a little boring (it's just climbing at the
right speed and keep tracking the radial!), I'll show you how to use the C-130 autopilot. Note that this autopilot is very
primitive and may sometimes act strangely - if the autopilot does anything you don't agree to, I want you to immediately
disengage it and fly manually. I also want you to disengage the autopilot and fly manually 10 miles before intercepting
another VOR radial and another 10 miles after interception. The Smiths autopilot included is capable of holding altitudes
or speeds, tracking a heading, VOR radial or ILS. That's everything it can do, really!
- In the autopilot panel (AP icon):
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1. Turn the MODE SEL switch to the VOR/ILS1 position.
That will tell the autopilot that you want it to track a VOR radial.
2. Engage the autopilot by clicking on the engage button
With the autopilot engaged, you will be able to select how you want it to operate.
3. Activate the VOR1 course tracking by clicking on the track button
The autopilot will now control the ailerons to keep the aircraft always tracking on the 246 radial.
The autopilot will follow the VOR radial you've selected on the HSI, but we still need to adjust it to climb. The climb
options are limited: you can either make it hold the present airspeed (that would be the best option, but it's not working
correctly) or control the pitch using the pitch button. Using the pitch button, find the pitch angle that will maintain the
aircraft climbing at the proper climb speed... adjust it as necessary. That's how the autopilot works - simple, isn't it?!
Cruise
At this time, you should have climbed to 20,000ft (FL200) using the speeds provided in the chart, levelled off and
adjusted power to maintain 290 knots of true airspeed - the true airspeed gauge is available on the navigator panel (N
icon) only. For the first 212 miles of the flight, we'll continue to follow the LITTLE ROCK VOR's 246 radial. At about 100
DME from the station, open the radio stack (Radio mast/tower icon) and change the NAV1/NAV2 radios to the
BONHAM VOR (BYP - 114.60) frequency - that will help on keeping the bearing needle always accurate. There is no
need to change the course on the HSI - we are flying to the same place, just using another station as reference. The
bearing needle should remain centred, but if there is a discrepancy you simply need to turn left or right to intercept and
track the radial again.
Now it's time to prepare for our first en-route turn. When you get close enough to the BONHAM VOR (let's say 10 miles
from it), open the radio stack again and set the RANGER VOR (FUZ - 115.70) frequency on both NAV1 and NAV2 radios.
Since the RANGER VOR is not in front of us, the bearing needle will go off centre. There is no need to worry, I just want
you to maintain the same heading and keep a close look on the HSI. Also, turn the course set knob (on the HSI) to 224 it is the only radial that passes both VOR stations and this is why we are going to fly it. At the appropriate time, turn left
to intercept and track the new radial. We are now heading to the RANGER VOR with the BONHAM VOR right behind
us!
After 60 miles of flying this new radial, we'll need to do another turn and finally head to the airport. Again, 10 miles
before reaching the RANGER VOR, set the ABILENE VOR (ABI - 113.70) frequency on both NAV1 and NAV2 radios.
Turn the course set knob to 250 - it is the only radial that passes both VOR stations. The bearing needle will go off-centre
again, you just need to keep the present heading and turn right when appropriate. Intercept and track the radial as soon
as possible, but avoid exceeding 30 degrees of bank - if you missed it the first time, just make the appropriate corrections
to get on course.
That's how we cruise using VOR's as navigation aids. It is certainly more difficult than setting and FMC and watching the
autopilot do the job, but it is not rocket science. One you get enough experience that will certainly be your favourite way
of flying, but anyway we are done with cruising... let's proceed to the descent.
Descent and approach
After more than an hour at our cruise level, it's finally time to prepare and start the descent. We'll now review the
approach, configure the aircraft for descent and start approaching the airport. Since the C-130 cruises in a much lower
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level than most of the jetliners (FL350 vs. FL200), our descent should take only about 10 minutes. Let's start the
preparation to get this aircraft down to 5,000ft!
A little break for the descent and approach briefing...
Before actually starting the descent and approach, we need to brief the procedure in detail - nothing can go wrong at this
stage. I want you to read this section very carefully!
At about 45 miles from the ABILENE VOR (45 DME), move the throttles back to the flight idle position (flight idle, not
ground idle!) and remain at FL200. This should yield a zero torque configuration, resulting in an economic powerless
descent. When the airspeed comes close to 210 knots, push forward on the yoke and start a 2000 feet per minute
descent; make the necessary elevator trim adjustments to keep 210 knots. I want you to keep a speed of about 210
knots and a descent rate of about 2000FPM (Feet Per Minute) - change the attitude and throttle positions as needed, but
never let the engine torque go negative. That attitude/speed should yield a near cruise speed descent and a good
descent rate, allowing us to get down to 5,000ft (the initial approach fix altitude) in a fairly short time. During the
descent, I still want to you track the 250 radial to the ABILENE VOR.
Before we continue, please download (and print, if possible) the Dyess AFB ILS RNW 34 and ILS RNW 16 approach
plates at AirNav.com. Approach plates provide essential information about the procedure, which must be strictly followed.
If you are unfamiliar with them, please take some time to read our "How to interpret approach plates" tutorial.
There are several limitations in both Flight Simulator and the Captain Sim C-130 Hercules that make this approach more
complicated. First of all, FS2004 does not support TACANs, (military version of the VOR) which are a very common
navigation aid at Air Force Bases. The DYESS TACAN could give us DME information, but since it is inoperative we have
no way of knowing how far from the runway we are. Even if TACANs were operative, the C-130 doesn't have a working
DME for the NAV2 radio - we'd have to be switching frequencies in order to get a DME information from NAV2. Also, a
real ATC could easily vector us to the initial approach fix, but FS ATC is not capable of that. Despite all these limitations,
we are still able to do a fairly realistic approach.
Using the C-130E Takeoff and Landing Speeds file you have downloaded, determine the threshold and landing
speeds (for a flap 100% setting landing) based on your gross weight. Because of the weather conditions, We will be
landing on runway 34. Don't worry if you need to land on runway 16 - the approach is basically the same, but in the
opposite direction. Now look at the approach plate - notice that we're coming from the right side and that the approach
begins 20 miles before the runway threshold at an altitude of 5,000 ft. We basically need to cross the airport, join the left
traffic pattern, turn to final at about 20 miles behind the runway and land using the ILS. In the meantime, we also need
to reduce the speed, extend the flaps/gear and configure the different systems of the aircraft. Let's now brief this
approach in detail.
At this point, you should have already descended to 5,000ft and slowed down to 180 knots. Since we're joining the left
traffic pattern, we'll continue to track the ABILENE VOR 250 radial until 5 miles past the VOR station - that should
provide a good spacing for the downwind leg. After crossing the station and flying for 5 more miles, turn left to the
opposite runway heading (341) in order to enter the downwind leg. After the turn is completed slow-down to 150 knots.
Still in the downwind leg, I want you to set the ILS frequency on the NAV1 radio (I-DYS - 109.90) and turn the COURSE
SET knob to 161. We'll continue to fly in this heading (341deg), speed (150kts) and altitude (5,000ft) until the glideslope
indicator bar starts to go up. When the glideslope indicator bar has gone all the way up, start another left turn to the
base leg, reduce the speed to 140 knots and set flaps to 50%. In a short time, the localizer will become "alive", and you
should make the last turn to final approach. When the final turn is completed, extend the landing gear and - In the
hydraulics system (R1 icon) set the auxiliary hydraulic pump ON. Finally, set the flaps to 100% and reduce the speed to
about 130 knots "when the landing is assured". Keep the localizer and glideslope centred at all times.
Page 15 of 20
That's the end of the descent and approach briefing. Please read this section again, analyse the approach plate
carefully and get ready to start the descent. It is extremely important that you fully understand what you are
supposed to do before starting the descent.
Since we've already briefed the descent and approach procedure, I'll not be very detailed here - much of the information
you need for this phase was already presented in the briefing section. Back at cruise altitude, move the throttle to the
flight idle position and wait for the speed to drop to 210 knots. Then, adjust the attitude and thrust so that you descend
at -2000FPM with a constant speed of 210 knots. While descending, continue to track the ABILENE VOR 250 radial.
From the approach plate, we learn that the decision height for this approach is 200 feet - set this in the radar altimeter.
Continue the descent until reaching 5,000ft, then level-off and adjust the throttle to maintain 180 knots.
Five miles past the VOR station, start a left turn to heading 341 in order to enter the downwind leg. The airport should be
ahead of you, on the left side. Slow down to 150 knots - that is the normal downwind leg speed. Still in the downwind
leg, set the ILS frequency on the NAV1 radio (I-DYS - 109.90) and turn the COURSE SET knob to 161 (runway heading).
Maintain this same heading, speed and altitude until the glideslope bar has moved all the way up. At this point, start
another left turn to the base leg (heading 71), reduce the speed to 140 knots and set the flaps to 50%. In a short time,
the localiser will become "alive" - make your last left turn to the final approach leg, extend the landing gear and activate
the auxiliary hydraulic pump from the hydraulics system (R1 icon). Finally, set the flaps to 100% and reduce the speed to
around 130 knots "when the landing is assured". You may also want to turn the taxi and landing lights ON.
--- RUN THE BEFORE LANDING CHECKLIST --Landing, taxiing and shutdown
You have successfully started the aircraft and flown it for about 1h 30min. It's finally time to land. We'll now get to the
runway and touchdown at the right speed, taxi to the stand and shutdown the aircraft.
Continue tracking the localizer and glideslope, but also keep an eye on the runway - it's important that you have visual
contact with it before reaching the decision height. At about 1000 feet above ground level (watch the radio altimeter),
reduce the power slightly so that you can slow down to the threshold speed. When above the threshold, reduce the
power once last time so that you can reach the touchdown speed at the moment of touchdown. Keep a close eye on the
radio altimeter, the speed, the attitude indicator and the runway. At about 25 feet above ground level, gently pull back on
Page 16 of 20

the yoke to begin the flare - your vertical speed should now be -100~-200FPM, which is perfectly suitable for landing.
Don't worry if the conditions require a greater vertical speed, the landing gear can handle rough landings too.
Touchdown with the main gear first and smoothly but gently apply forward pressure to lower the nose gear and increase
steering effectiveness. Using the wheel brakes slow the aircraft and apply reverse thrust as needed. At taxi speed, release
the brakes and move the throttles forward to maintain the taxi speed; exit the runway and start taxiing to the stand
following ATC instructions. While taxiing, command flaps up and:
1. Turn the Master Control knob to the STBY position
The transponder is no longer needed now that you're on the ground again.
- In the TCAS panel (Rdr icon):
1. Function selector switch OFF
This will turn the radar off. You'll not need a TCAS on the ground, since there's no collision risk and the antenna emits
radiation.
1. Air conditioning master switch AIR COND NO PRESS
The cabin will be climatised, but not pressurised. Everyone should be able to breath now...
- In the anti-icing system (Upper OH icon):
Page 17 of 20
1. NESA windshield switches - OFF

2. PITOT HEAT switches - OFF
3. PROP & ENG ANTI-ICING - OFF
4. ENGINE INLET AIR DUCT ANTI-ICING - OFF
Anti-icing is no longer needed now that we're on the ground.

- In the GTC control panel and electrical system (Upper OH icon):
1. Start GTC - STARTING
This requires several steps:
1.1. Open the GTC intake door in order to allow GTC startup. The "NOT CLOSED" indicator should illuminate.
1.2. Turn the GTC control switch to the START position. It will go back to "RUN" and the "START" light goes on.
1.3. Wait until the ON SPEED light goes on. This light indicates that the GTC is operating normally and load can finally be
applied.
1.4. Open the bleed air valve. This forces the GTC to supply air to the bleed-air system, which will be used to climatise
the aircraft.
2. START ATM - STARTING
This requires two steps:
2.1. Start the ATM by placing the ATM control switch to the ON position.
2.1. Connect the ATM generator by placing the generator switch in the RESET, ON position. This will supply power to the
essential AC bus.
3. Bus tie switch - TIED
This Provides a means for powering the main ac bus from the ATM generator during ground operation with no enginedriven generators supplying power.
--- RUN THE AFTER LANDING CHECKLIST --Tutorial by Bernardo Srulzon -- www.fsstation.com
Page 18 of 20

Set the parking brake to ON as soon as you are parked in the stand and make sure throttles are in the ground idle
position. Let's now proceed to the engine shutdown and final configurations.
1. Place condition levers in GROUND STOP and observe zero fuel flow
That should stop the engines. Power is now being provided by the ATM and battery.
2. Temp datum control switches - NULL
- In the pressurisation and bleed air systems (Upper OH icon):
1. Air conditioning master switch OFF
You are just about to leave the aircraft, climatisation is no longer needed.
2. Engine bleed air switches - OFF
The engines are off and not supplying bleed air. There is no need to keep the engine bleed air switches on.
1. Engine generator switches - OFF

No power is being provided from the engines, so their generators can be disconnected
2. Inverters - OFF
Both "Co-pilot AC Instruments" and "AC instrument and Engine" switches should be placed in the OFF position
Page 19 of 20

1. SUCTION BOOST PUMP switches - OFF

2. ANTI-SKID switch - OFF
There is no more braking power needed. We're already parked (and wheel chocked) at the stand.
- In the GTC control panel and in the electrical system (Upper OH icon):
1. Disconnect the ATM generator

2. Stop the ATM
We are leaving the aircraft. It's time to turn the power off.
3. Stop the GTC
This requires three other steps:
3.1. Close the bleed air valve

3.2. Turn the GTC control switch to the OFF position.
3.3. Close the GTC door
1. Bus tie switch - NORMAL

2. DC power switch - OFF
That will completely shutdown the aircraft. This is the famous "Cold and Dark" state.
--- RUN THE ENGINE SHUTDOWN CHECKLIST ---
Phew! You've just completed a Captain Sim C-130 Hercules flight. Congratulations!
This tutorial was developed by Bernardo Srulzon. Please visit www.fsstation.com to read other
reviews/tutorials and receive support for this one.
Page 20 of 20

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Tutorial by Bernardo Srulzon -- www.fsstation.

Captain Sim C-130 Hercules - Flight Tutorial

Tutorial by Bernardo Srulzon -- www.fsstation.com

1. BRAKE SELECT switch - EMERGENCY

1. TEMP DATUM CONTROL VALVES switches - AUTO

Permits normal operation of the electronic temperature datum control system.

2. Condition levers, throttles GRD STOP, GRD IDLE

Tutorial by Bernardo Srulzon -- www.fsstation.com

Tutorial by Bernardo Srulzon -- www.fsstation.com

2. External DC power switch - EXT DC PWR

1. Start GTC - STARTING

This require several steps;

Tutorial by Bernardo Srulzon -- www.fsstation.com

This require two steps:

This require two steps:

1.1. Co-pilot inverter switch - ESSENTIAL AC BUS

Align the knob's yellow stripe with panel's green stripe.

1. Fuel enrichment switches - OFF

1. SUCTION BOOST PUMP switches - ON/LIGHTS OUT

2. AUX PUMP switch - ON

Tutorial by Bernardo Srulzon -- www.fsstation.com

--- RUN THE BEFORE STARTING CHECKLIST --Starting engines

1. Low Speed Ground Buttons - LOW

1. Engine bleed air switch - OPEN

This will provide bleed air for the engines to start.

1. Condition lever - RUN

Tutorial by Bernardo Srulzon -- www.fsstation.com

Tutorial by Bernardo Srulzon -- www.fsstation.com

1. Engine generator switch - ON

2. DC power switch - BATTERY

1. Close the bleed air valve

Tutorial by Bernardo Srulzon -- www.fsstation.com

Tutorial by Bernardo Srulzon -- www.fsstation.com

1. Disconnect the ATM generator (battery users only).

3. Stop the GTC

This requires two other steps;

3.1. Turn the GTC control switch to the OFF position.

1. Air conditioning master switch AIR COND NO PRESS

1. External AC power switch - OFF

--- RUN THE STARTING ENGINES CHECKLIST ---

Tutorial by Bernardo Srulzon -- www.fsstation.com

Tutorial by Bernardo Srulzon -- www.fsstation.com

Tutorial by Bernardo Srulzon -- www.fsstation.com

1. Brakes - NORMAL / ANTI-SKID ON

Tutorial by Bernardo Srulzon -- www.fsstation.com

The green band indicates that a specific indication is operating normally.

1. Cabin Pressure Controller - 6000 FEET

2. DC bus tie switch - NORMAL

- In the anti-icing system (Upper OH icon):

1. NESA windshield switches - NORMAL

2. PITOT HEAT switches - ON

Tutorial by Bernardo Srulzon -- www.fsstation.com

Tutorial by Bernardo Srulzon -- www.fsstation.com

3. PROP & ENG ANTI-ICING - ON

1. Function selector switch TCAS

Tutorial by Bernardo Srulzon -- www.fsstation.com

Tutorial by Bernardo Srulzon -- www.fsstation.com

Tutorial by Bernardo Srulzon -- www.fsstation.com

Tutorial by Bernardo Srulzon -- www.fsstation.com

1. Auxiliary hydraulic pump switch - OFF

- From takeoff until starting flap retraction

- Takeoff speed + 20~30 knots