In the low-speed emergency descent, what is the thrust setting?

• A. NR 104%
• B. NR 102%
• C. NR 100%
• D. NR 98%

Answer: (B)

During a low-speed emergency descent, the goal is to descend safely and controlled while avoiding a stall, so you need enough thrust to keep the airplane from losing airspeed as you descend. Setting the engines at a little above the reference speed—specifically NR 102%—gives a small power margin. That extra thrust helps compensate for lower airspeed, higher drag, and small variations in engine performance or instrument indication, keeping you on the desired descent path without fighting for power. Too little thrust wouldn’t provide enough margin to maintain control, while too much thrust could push the engine beyond what’s appropriate for this maneuver. So NR 102% is the balanced setting that provides the necessary margin within safe limits.