Continuous Climb and Descent Operations
Continuous Climb and Descent Operations (CCO & CDO) are aircraft operating techniques enabled by airspace and instrument procedure design and facilitated by air traffic control.
Benefits of CCO & CDO ⬇
- Reduction in pilot and controller workload through reduced required radio transmissions and ATC intervention
- reduced fuel burn through optimal engine thrust settings
- Cost savings
- CO2 emission savings
- Less noise
- More efficient use of airspace
By removing level-offs which require high thrust in order to maintain a level flight in low altitudes on the approach phase, environmental and financial savings can be achieved with the help of continuous operations.
What’s the buzz?
CCO & CDO are innovative flight techniques optimizing your climb and descent, slashing fuel burn and emissions. Think less level flight, more continuous gliding towards your destination.
Climb smarter, descend smoother:
- CCO: Power up with optimal engine thrust and speeds, reaching cruising altitude efficiently. No more wasteful step climbs!
- CDO: Dive into fuel-saving descents, minimizing time at lower altitudes where engines guzzle gas. Think steady, controlled drops.
Ready to take off?
CCO & CDO require collaborative effort: airlines, air traffic control, and airspace design all working together. But the rewards are worth the ride – a win-win for airlines, the environment, and passengers.
References and Further Reading
- EUROCONTROL CCO/CDO: https://www.eurocontrol.int/concept/continuous-climb-and-descent-operations
- ICAO MID CCO/CDO Workshop: https://www.icao.int/MID/Documents/2022/CCO-CDO%20Workshop/PPT%201.1%20-%20CCO%20CDO%20overview.pdf
- SKYbrary CCO: https://skybrary.aero/articles/continuous-climb-operations-cco
Content editor: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sermetozturk