VNAV creates a 3-degree descent path that ensures that you cross each stepdown exactly at the published altitudes. As the table below shows, that 3-degree angle can result in ear-popping descents in unpressurized airplanes, especially if you begin a VNAV-guided descent near normal cruise speed. While tracking the default 3-degree VNAV path, you may also have trouble slowing down to the appropriate speeds for extending flaps and landing gear as you approach the FAF. When I started using VNAV, I quickly changed the default VNAV angle to 2 APR button on a GFC 600. degrees. That shallower angle results in much more comfortable descent rates as I head downhill at typical speeds (150-180 knots) in my Beechcraft A36 Bonanza. You can change the default flight path angle (FPA) to suit your aircraft's performance. Even if you have adjusted the FPA, to avoid large or sudden power reductions when tracking VNAV descents you will Descent rates in feet per minute at 2.0 and 3.0 degrees. BREAK FREE FROM TRADITIONAL TRAINING FREE to AOPA members, CFIs, and flight schools. SEE IT! AOPA.ORG/AFTAhttp://www.AOPA.ORG/AFTA