Lesson Plan

Steep Turns

Objectives

  • Develop a pilot’s skill in flight control smoothness and coordination
  • Develop an awareness of the airplane’s orientation to outside references
  • Develop division of attention between flight control application
  • Practice the constant need to scan for hazards

Elements

Example

Common Errors

  • Not clearing the area
  • Inadequate pitch control on entry or rollout
  • Gaining altitude or losing altitude
  • Failure to maintain constant bank angle
  • Poor flight control coordination
  • Ineffective use of trim and/or power
  • Inadequate airspeed control
  • Becoming disoriented
  • Performing by reference to the flight instruments rather than visual instruments
  • Failure to scan for traffic during the maneuver
  • Attempts to start recovery prematurely
  • Failure to stop turn on the designated heading

Completion Standards

  • Clear the area.
  • Establish the manufacturer’s recommended airspeed or, if not stated, a safe airspeed not to exceed VA
  • Roll into a coordinated 360° steep turn with approximately a 45° bank.
  • Perform the Task in the opposite direction, as specified by evaluator.
  • Maintain the entry altitude ±100 feet, airspeed ±10 knots, bank ±5°, and roll out on the entry heading ±10°.

References