Plain English Meaning
The way you start a descent — the sequence of small changes you make to power, pitch, and trim that takes the airplane smoothly from level flight into a steady descent.
Full Definition
The coordinated set of control and power changes used to transition the aircraft from level flight into a stabilized descent at a planned airspeed and rate of descent. A standard instrument descent entry involves reducing power to a predetermined setting, allowing the airspeed to decrease (if a constant-airspeed descent is desired) or pitching down to establish the target descent rate, and trimming to relieve control pressures.
Context Anchor
Used in instrument flying when practicing straight descents or beginning an assigned descent while flying by the instruments.
Derivation
Descent comes from a Latin word meaning “to climb down.” Entry means “going into” something. Together, descent entry means going into the downward part of the flight in a controlled way, not just ending up there.
Why Pilots Care
A smooth descent entry prevents airspeed overshoots, maintains positive control, and reduces workload during altitude changes in instrument conditions.
Grounding Statement
The key idea is a smooth, deliberate change from level flight into a controlled downward path.
Intuition Check
Do not think of a descent entry as simply letting the airplane sink. It is an intentional setup for the descent, with power, nose position, heading, and instruments all checked.
Example Sentence 1
After ATC cleared him to 6,000 feet, he began the descent entry by reducing power, lowering the nose slightly, and trimming for 500 feet per minute.
Example Sentence 2
After completing the descent entry, the aircraft stabilizes at 500 feet per minute while holding 90 knots and the assigned heading.