The Proper Attitude
This section explains the concept of angle of attack and its importance in understanding stalls and safe flight practices for student pilots.
Understanding Angle of Attack:
- Definition and Importance:
- The angle between where the airplane is pointed and where it's moving.
- Critical in determining when a wing will stall.
- Visualizing Angle of Attack:
- Observe the pitch attitude (nose position) and the vertical speed indicator.
- Nose up and climbing: angle of attack is relatively low.
- Nose up and descending: angle of attack is high and may approach stall angle (16 to 18 degrees).
- Stalling at Any Attitude:
- An airplane can stall even with the nose down if the critical angle of attack is exceeded.
- Abrupt application of up elevator increases angle of attack suddenly.
- Smooth control inputs help prevent unintended stalls.
Relationship Between Airspeed and Angle of Attack:
- Airspeed Indicator Limitations:
- Shows part of the picture but doesn't indicate angle of attack directly.
- Mental Reference to Angle of Attack:
- Always be aware of where the airplane is pointed versus where it's moving.
- Visualize the relative wind and angle of attack.
- Preventing Stalls:
- Understanding that high angle of attack, not just low airspeed, leads to stalls.
- Maintaining appropriate airspeed and smooth flight controls.
Use of Angle of Attack Indicators:
- Prevalence in Aircraft:
- Common in jet aircraft cockpits.
- Increasingly available in general aviation aircraft.
- Benefits of Indicators:
- Provide warnings when approaching critical angle of attack limits.
- Enhance understanding of aircraft control limits.
- Limitations:
- Do not prevent entry into unusual flight attitudes.
- Pilots must still maintain good flying practices.
Best Practices for Safe Flying:
- Fly Smoothly:
- Avoid abrupt or aggressive maneuvers.
- Use gentle control inputs to manage angle of attack.
- Maintain Adequate Airspeed:
- Keep airspeed comfortably above stall speed.
- Monitor airspeed and angle of attack, especially during critical phases of flight.
- Avoid Inadvertent Stalls:
- Stay aware of aircraft attitude and performance.
- Regularly practice stall recognition and recovery procedures.
By understanding angle of attack and applying smooth flying techniques, student pilots can enhance flight safety and reduce the risk of inadvertent stalls.