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The Finer Points: Don’t Let the Horse Eat Grass

Pilots can learn a lot by treating airplane training as if they're learning how to ride a horse. Pexels
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Airplanes behave more like horses than cars, requiring a pilot's approach that emphasizes a light touch and constant, disciplined attention to maintain control.
  • Pilots should use a light grip on the controls to feel the aircraft's trim, prevent over-controlling, and develop a more nuanced understanding of its movements.
  • Treating the airplane as an animal that "tests" the pilot encourages a positive mental attitude toward control and responsibility, leading to improved precision in maintaining heading and altitude ("not letting the horse eat grass").
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I realized at some point during my instrument training that airplanes are a lot more like horses than they are like cars, and pilots can learn a lot by approaching their machines with this in mind.

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