More Moose Stalls

Joseph E. (Jeb) Burnside

Tuesday, June 22, 2021 at 11:09 AM ET

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X-47B Flying

Key Takeaways:

Pilots at low altitudes may misperceive ground speed as airspeed, potentially leading to a reduced safety margin above stall speed, especially during uncoordinated turns.
A detailed, instrument-focused technique for circling approaches can prevent disorientation and maintain safety, particularly in challenging conditions, by adhering to protected airspace and delaying visual contact re-establishment.
An incident with backward-wired pitch trim highlights the critical need for thorough pre-flight checks after avionics work, understanding the rapid impact of trim malfunctions, and practicing flight with full trim at a safe altitude.

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I read with interest Colleen Mondor’s “Moose Stalls” piece in the May issue. As a pilot who avoids both scouting for moose and low-altitude turns, I wonder if there’s another factor. At low altitude, a pilot likely subconsciously perceives the greater relative motion of the aircraft over the ground as greater airspeed, perhaps leading the pilot to think she/he has a greater cushion above stall speed than actual. This, coupled with a ham-handed turn, complete with crossed controls while trying to keep a spot on the ground in sight, adds up to trouble.

Drake Hokanson – La Crosse, Wis.