FMS

FMS (Flight Management System) is an integrated avionics system that automates flight planning, navigation, performance computation, and guidance. The FMS is the central brain of modern aircraft operations.

Core functions:

• Route planning and lateral navigation (LNAV)
• Vertical navigation and descent profiles (VNAV)
• Performance calculations (takeoff, climb, cruise, descent, approach)
• Fuel management and predictions
• Navigation database management (updated every 28 days via AIRAC)

The FMS interfaces with the autopilot, autothrottle, and flight displays to execute the planned flight profile.