Flying by Vertical Angles

Aircraft performance parameters are typically expressed as measurements of speed (indicated and true), altitude and vertical speed. Often overlooked is angle as an expression of performance. Angles are a terrific tool for estimating glide and approach performance, avoiding clouds and storms and avoiding obstacles and terrain on takeoff. There are two related subjects: how to measure angles while in flight, and how measured angles can solve in-flight problems. Lets start with measurement.

Key Takeaways:

• Angles are an overlooked but crucial tool for pilots to accurately estimate aircraft performance, avoid terrain and obstacles, and navigate weather efficiently.
• Pilots can measure vertical angles in-flight using a clinometer (or a smartphone app) and horizontal angles with a handheld sighting compass.
• These measured angles are practical for calculating engine-out glide performance, planning takeoff climb to clear obstacles, determining optimal descent profiles, and assessing cloud layers for avoidance.
• Employing angle calculations provides pilots with a robust starting point for informed decision-making, moving beyond guesswork in critical flight situations.

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