Plane and Pilot

MARCH 25, 2025

A steam gauge airspeed indicator, Garmin G3X, autopilot, Garmin G5, transponder, fuel selector, accelerometer, and steam gauge altimeter were centered directly in front of me. After a few seconds, Ill lift the tail and then add full power. Ill roll out on the runway and slowly bring the power in, I said. Sounds good.

Knot 111

Knot Airplanes Runway Rudder 111

Northstar VFR

OCTOBER 27, 2024

If ailerons affect the longitudinal axis of the plane, then how do they turn the plane? Ailerons control the roll of the plane by turning around its longitudinal axis. Ailerons (“little wings” in French) are like smaller wings attached to the trailing edges of the main wings. What altitude does Class A airspace extend to?

Longitudinal Axis 59

Longitudinal Axis Pitot Tube Checkride Pilot 59

Pilot Institute

SEPTEMBER 18, 2024

In maintaining a properly coordinated steep turn, the pilot must use the opposite aileron to maintain bank. A smaller bank angle will result in more lift, while an increased bank angle will reduce the lift. As an aircraft banks, lift is divided into horizontal and vertical components.

Lift 52

Lift Aileron Drag Pilot 52

Pilot Institute

MAY 9, 2024

The higher speed creates extra lift, causing the airplane to bank further into the turn. We correct for the overbanking tendency with aileron opposite the turn. The aileron on the right wing deflects down, increasing the camber and creating more lift. The left wing’s aileron deflects up, decreasing lift.

Rudder 52

Rudder Lift Aileron Drag 52

Pilot Institute

MAY 4, 2024

The local altimeter setting is 29.65, the temperature is 25°C, and we have a 9-knot headwind. Subtract the altimeter setting from 29.92, multiply it by 1,000, and add that to the field elevation. Reducing lift puts more weight on the wheels. You will need more aileron input as you slow down as the controls become less effective.

Weight-Shift-Control 52

Weight-Shift-Control Runway Approach Density Altitude 52