Straight and Level Flight -Cont.

CHAPTER SIX

T-34C CONTACT

iii.

CORRECTIONS: Whenever an error in heading is noted, first stop the error

and stabilize, then correct back to proper heading. A correction to return to a

desired heading should be made by establishing an angle of bank using the

integrated scan and maintaining it until approaching the particular heading

desired. As a rule of thumb, the angle of bank used for heading corrections

should not exceed the number of degrees you want to turn. Lead the rollout on

heading by the "one-third rule," (i.e., by the number of degrees equal to one-

third the angle of bank). This lead in rollout will preclude turning beyond the

desired heading.

Continually observing the wingtips has advantages other than being a positive

check for leveling the wings. It also helps divert the pilot's attention from the

airplane's nose, prevents a fixed stare, and automatically expands the radius of

visual scanning. In straight-and-level flight the wingtips can be used for both

estimating the airplane's angle of bank, and to a lesser degree, its pitch attitude.

In balanced flight, any time the wings are banked, even though very slightly, the

airplane will turn. Thus, close attention should be given to the wing position

and attitude indicator to detect small indications of bank, and to the heading

indicator to note any change of direction.

When the wings are approximately level, straight flight could be maintained by

simply exerting the necessary forces on the rudder in the desired direction.

However, the practice of using rudder alone is not a "normal" method of aircraft

control and may make precise control of the airplane difficult.

Straight-and-level flight requires almost no application of control pressure if the

airplane is properly trimmed and the air is smooth. For that reason, the pilot

must not form the habit of moving the controls unnecessarily.

When practicing this fundamental flight maneuver, the pilot should trim the

airplane so it will fly straight and level without assistance. This is called

"hands-off flight." The trim controls, when correctly used, are aids to smooth

and precise flying. Improper trim technique usually results in flying that is

physically tiring, particularly in prolonged straight-and-level flight. By using

the trim tabs to relieve all control pressures, the pilot will find that it is much

easier to hold a given altitude and heading. The airplane should be trimmed by

first applying control pressure to establish the desired attitude, and then

adjusting the trim so that the airplane will maintain that attitude without control

pressure in "hands-off flight."

Your instructor will introduce straight-and-level flight in normal cruise.

Corrections In Straight-And-Level Flight

There are several methods for correcting a deviation from desired altitude/airspeed

when maintaining level flight. These consist of a power correction, or a power and

attitude correction with a continual need for retrimming.

6-10 FLIGHT PROCEDURES