What is the FAA normal rate of descent?

Descend at the optimum rate for the aircraft being flown until 1,000 feet above the assigned altitude, then descend at a rate between 500 and 1,500 fpm to the assigned altitude. If at any time, other than when slowing to 250 KIAS at 10,000 feet MSL, the pilot cannot descend at a rate of at least 500 fpm, advise ATC.



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If at anytime the pilot is unable to climb or descend at a rate of at least 500 feet a minute, advise ATC.

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