Top of Descent

Simple Top of Descent calculator using common rules of thumb. Enter your altitudes, speeds and wind to estimate TOD distance and descent time.

✈️ Wind: + tailwind / − headwind

Inputs

ft
ft
kt
kt
kt
°

Overview

Top of Descent distance
— NM
Estimated descent time
— min
Required vertical speed
— fpm
Estimated ground speed
— kt
Assumptions
• Altitude loss → distance using glide angle and 1 NM ≈ 6076 ft
• Deceleration → 1 NM per 10 kt speed reduction
• Wind correction → 1 NM per 10 kt (tailwind + / headwind −)

This is an estimate. Always follow charts, FMS and operational procedures.