TURNS AROUND A POINT

Description

A maneuver requiring a constant radius turn about a point on the ground.

Objective

To teach turning technique, subconscious control of the airplane, division of attention, effects of bank angle to radius of a turn, perception of altitude and correction of wind drift.

Elements

·         Clear the area

·         Choose forced landing area

·         Configure aircraft: flaps and gear up, maneuvering speed ≤V_A (C172RG: 18” Hg, 2300 RPM, approx. 100 KIAS), straight-and-level at altitude between 600-1000’ AGL, trim to maintain altitude

·         Select outside reference (a distinguished point to encircle)

·         Enter the circle, ideally on downwind and close enough to allow for a 30º to 45º bank at steepest point (this lesson assumes downwind entry)

·         Turn to the steepest bank at the start of the circle (on downwind)

·         Upon rounding the turn, the bank will become progressively shallower until on upwind, at which point it will be shallowest, then start to become steeper again until again on downwind

·         Maintain radius of circle by adjusting bank as necessary to compensate for wind

·         Maintain ball centered

·         Look for traffic throughout

Common Errors

·         Failure to adequately clear the area

·         Failure to establish appropriate bank on entry

·         Failure to recognize wind drift

·         Excessive bank and/or inadequate wind correction angle on the downwind side of the circle resulting in drift towards the reference point

·         Inadequate bank angle and/or excessive wind correction angle on the upwind side of the circle resulting in drift away from the reference point

·         Skidding turns when turning from downwind to crosswind

·         Slipping turns when turning from upwind to crosswind

·         Gaining or losing altitude

·         Inadequate visual lookout for other aircraft

·         Inability to direct attention outside the airplane while maintaining precise airplane control

References

FAA-H-8083-3A Airplane Flying Handbook p. 6-7