By the PilotLeague Team - Fuel Efficiency Module #3
In your airliner's FMC (Flight Management Computer), one value radically influences every phase of your flight: the Cost Index (CI). This parameter, essential during your fuel planning basics, defines whether your priority is saving fuel or reducing flight time.
Understanding the CI allows you to make informed decisions on every flight. A well-chosen Cost Index can save thousands of kilograms of fuel over a career, while a poor choice can lead to excessive consumption or missed schedules.
After every flight, PilotLeague compares your actual consumption to your speed profile. By mastering the Cost Index, you'll learn to reduce your Fuel Flow while meeting schedules:
PilotLeague compares your actual consumption to your speed profile:
Part of our Flight Economy course. Learn how CI connects to optimal cruise altitude selection and approach speed management.
The Cost Index balances time-related costs against fuel costs.
The Cost Index automatically adjusts your climb and cruise profile. For example, a high CI increases your speed, which directly affects your optimal cruise altitude selection. The faster you fly, the more drag increases, and the more your aircraft needs dense air to remain efficient.
Conversely, a low CI (close to 0) forces the flight computer to calculate the "Maximum Range" speed. This is the ideal strategy for flights where reserves are tight or when you want to maximize your energy efficiency score on the PilotLeague dashboard.
It's important to note that your Cost Index choice also influences your descent. A flight conducted at high speed generates significant kinetic energy that must be dissipated before landing. Poor CI management can make your approach speed management much more complex, sometimes forcing you to use spoilers inefficiently.
| CI Value | Effect | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | Max Economy | Record flights or tight fuel situations. |
| 15 - 35 | Standard | Regular flights (A320/B737). |
| 80+ | Max Speed | Schedule recovery. |
After every flight, PilotLeague compares your actual consumption to your speed profile. By mastering the Cost Index, you'll learn to reduce your Fuel Flow while meeting schedules:
Apply these techniques in your next flight and track your improvement with PilotLeague.
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