Pilot Institute

NOVEMBER 23, 2024

Key Takeaways A flat spin is a dangerous, level-flight spin with reduced control effectiveness. A flat spin happens when the center of gravity shifts too far aft (toward the tail), and the aircraft’s rotation becomes more horizontal. Ready to become a safer pilot? Let’s get started! An aft center of gravity increases flat spin risk.

Center of Gravity 98

Center of Gravity Weight-Shift-Control Aileron Rudder 98

Pilot Institute

JANUARY 3, 2025

Moving erratically : Conditions are gusty or turbulent. The best windsocks strike a balance between weight and strength. A well-installed windsock should rotate freely on bearings, allowing it to turn smoothly as the wind direction shifts. How To Read a Windsock Hanging limp : Winds are under 3 knots. Why is this important?

Knot 98

Knot Weather Weight-Shift-Control Wind Shear 98

Pilot Institute

MARCH 7, 2025

And during these maneuvers, you need to: Act as the sole manipulator of the flight controls. Do your landings to a full stop in a tailwheel-equipped aircraft if youre flying a tailwheel airplane. At these heights, you could get into turbulence and gusty crosswinds. They can also cause icing and hinder aircraft performance.

Pilot 52

Pilot Weight-Shift-Control Pilot in Command Crosswind 52

Pilot Institute

FEBRUARY 20, 2025

These control surfaces dictate the aircraft’s roll, and this allows it to bank smoothly through turns or even recover from turbulence. Have you ever wondered how pilots keep control at high speeds, during stalls, or even when systems fail? Key Takeaways Ailerons control the aircrafts roll by adjusting lift on each wing.

Aileron 90

Aileron Weight-Shift-Control Rudder Longitudinal Axis 90

Pilot Institute

NOVEMBER 20, 2024

You matter just as much as the airplane you’re piloting. Try adding these exercises to your routine: Strength training: Do bodyweight exercises like push-ups and squats, or work out with resistance bands and weights. Loosen any tight grip on the controls or pen to ease physical tension. You’re the one flying the airplane.

Pilot 52

Pilot Weight-Shift-Control Cockpit Airplanes 52

AeroSavvy

MARCH 26, 2022

Even when painted, the plugs are still visible (they’re easier to see on dirty airplanes). Building a freighter without windows lowers manufacturing cost and reduces the aircraft weight by hundreds of pounds. A loaded ULD can weigh thousands of pounds; that much weight shifting during takeoff or in turbulence can be catastrophic.

Flight Deck 52

Flight Deck Cargo Weight-Shift-Control Pilot 52