Pilot Institute

NOVEMBER 23, 2024

An aft center of gravity increases flat spin risk. A flat spin happens when the center of gravity shifts too far aft (toward the tail), and the aircraft’s rotation becomes more horizontal. Some aircraft can enter flat spins even if their center of gravity is in the normal range.

Center of Gravity 98

Center of Gravity Weight-Shift-Control Aileron Rudder 98

Pilot Institute

NOVEMBER 11, 2024

Longitudinal Stability Longitudinal stability exists about the pitch axis. Placing the center of gravity ahead of the aircraft’s center of lift improves longitudinal stability. The aircraft’s horizontal stabilizer (tailplane) creates a downward lift to counterbalance pitching moments.

Stability 52

Stability Center of Gravity Aileron Rudder 52

Plane and Pilot

OCTOBER 3, 2024

Just recognizable in the background is a horizontal stabilizer and one-piece elevator. Nudging it back to center slid the ball a diameter the other way—trying to corral it in the middle was a bit pointless as it didn’t want to live there. I think I’d have figured out the trick in another couple hours.

Airplanes 59

Airplanes Rudder Knot Aileron 59