Plane and Pilot

NOVEMBER 10, 2024

In order to be flown by a sport pilot, the resulting airplane must still meet the current regulations—1,320 pounds maximum gross weight, 120 knots max cruise speed, for example—but how it gets there is up to the builder. On the walkaround, you doubtlessly noted the full-span flaperons (flaps plus ailerons as one unit).

Airplanes 98

Airplanes Knot Pitot Tube Gross Weight 98

Plane and Pilot

OCTOBER 4, 2024

If you learned in a four-seater, chances are most of your flying was with only two people on board, with a nice cushion below max gross weight and with a mid- or forward CG. Sometimes it seems that planes go off the side of the runway in a crosswind landing because the pilot did not use full aileron deflection to counter the crosswind.

Crosswind 52

Crosswind Aileron Runway Gross Weight 52

Plane and Pilot

NOVEMBER 10, 2024

In order to be flown by a sport pilot, the resulting airplane must still meet the current regulations—1,320 pounds maximum gross weight, 120 knots max cruise speed, for example—but how it gets there is up to the builder. On the walkaround, you doubtlessly noted the full-span flaperons (flaps plus ailerons as one unit).

Airplanes 98

Airplanes Knot Pitot Tube Gross Weight 98

Pilot Institute

MARCH 29, 2024

Higher altitudes are also less prone to turbulence and have fewer birds. This is often the clean configuration at max gross weight. Turbulent air will require a larger airspeed margin. To fight this overbanking tendency, add light aileron pressure in the opposite direction. Check your POH for specifics.

Lift 52

Lift Rudder Drag Checkride 52