Needle Calibration

JOINT ADVANCED MULTI-ENGINE T-44A

NOTE: The IVSI on the pilots side of the T-44 gives nearly instantaneous vertical speed information. The copilot's

VSI is a conventional instrument and is subject to major fluctuations with rapid vertical movement. When utilizing

the IVSI you must make smooth control inputs to set a desired rate of climb or descent. It is a valuable instrument

since it quickly shows trends, but avoid chasing the needle.

Needle Calibration. In the T-44A, a double needle width (in the dog house) deflection of the pilot's turn

204.

needle should yield a standard rate turn. However, due to slight errors in calibration, it is necessary to

check the turn needle against the clock to determine the deflection that will produce the required rate of

turn. Needle calibration is conducted to ensure the precision required for BI partial panel work. A needle

calibration is required on all flights where partial panel airwork is to be practiced.

(1)

Description. A standard rate turn (3 of turn per second) will always be approximately a double

needle width deflection, regardless of airspeed or AOB. However, the AOB and radius of turn

required for a standard rate turn will vary with true airspeed.

Technique. Note the position of the turn needle when on a constant heading. Smoothly roll into a

(2)

double needle width turn on the turn and slip indicator and note the AOB on the attitude indicator.

Start the clock turning through a 10 mark on the direction indicator. Note the time it takes to

achieve 30 of turn. Allow a minimum of 90 of turn to accurately calibrate the needle. When the

needle is calibrated, note the deflection and use that deflection for all turns in that direction. Repeat

the procedures for turns in the opposite direction.

NOTE: The copilot's turn needle provides a standard rate turn with a single needle width deflection.

205.

Constant Rate Climbs, Descents and Standard Rate Turns. Climbs, descents and turns are

accomplished essentially the same as in the FAM stage except as delineated below. These maneuvers are

practiced in order to refine the skills required for instrument flight. In the BI stage all climbs and descents

are made at a rate determined by the pattern being flown. Airspeed is held constant in all climbs, descents,

and turns. All turns are made at a standard rate. However, the AOB and radius of turn required for a

standard rate turn will vary with TAS (for the T-44, AOB is approximately 16-18% of TAS). As airspeed

decreases, the AOB required for a standard rate turn decreases. AOB is more critical than rate of climb due

to the time it takes to make corrections. Corrections to altitude can be done quickly.

(1)

Constant rate climbs/descents are accomplished by varying power as required to maintain a constant

vertical speed. Nose attitude is varied to maintain constant airspeed.

(a)

It is important to adjust pitch slowly and smoothly to transition to a climb/descent from

normal cruise.

(b)

Once the climb/descent is established, cross-check the altimeter against the clock and make

power corrections as necessary to correct the rate of climb/descent. Remember to adjust pitch

with each power change in order to maintain constant airspeed.

(2)

Standard rate turns (SRT) are accomplished by smoothly rolling to the AOB required to put the turn

needle at the standard rate position. Full panel standard rate turns are started with the clock's second

hand on the 6 or 12 position of the clock, using a three second lead to compensate for attitude

change. Partial panel standard rate turns are started with the clock's second hand on the 6 or 12

position.

(a)

Slight pitch up adjustment is required to compensate for loss of lift. Prolonged turns require

power addition to maintain constant airspeed.

(b)

Smoothly roll out of the turn anticipating the roll out heading by 1/3 the AOB; e.g., for 30

AOB, start rolling out 10 prior to roll out heading.

(c)

As wings roll toward level, anticipate a tendency for the aircraft to gain altitude.

(d)

Adjust AOB as necessary to a maximum of 30 to catch up in a turn.

2-2

BASIC INSTRUMENTS STAGE