From almost our very first flying lesson, pilots are taught what to do in the event a single-engine airplanes lone powerplant fails. As with too many concepts at that early stage of our training, we basically accept what were taught without many questions. Later, as we gain experience, we begin to think more about those early lessons and try to apply to them what our experience has taught us. In turn, many 288
Gliding With Precision
From almost our very first flying lesson, pilots are taught what to do in the event a single-engine airplanes lone powerplant fails. As with too many concepts at that early stage of our training, we basically accept what were taught without many questions. Later, as we gain experience, we begin to think more about those early lessons and try to apply to them what our experience has taught us. In turn, many questions can arise. If your airplane ever becomes a glider, you would suddenly become very interested in its new aerodynamics. How promptly and accurately you can remember to make the most of the variables at your disposal would play a large part in determining where and how softly you land. Lets take a look at those variables and how they can affect your emergency glide.
Key Takeaways:
- Upon engine failure, pilots must immediately establish and maintain the "best glide speed" to maximize their glide distance and available "cone of safety" from altitude.
- Best glide speed corresponds to the aircraft's optimum lift-to-drag ratio (L/Dmax), which provides the shallowest glide angle for maximum range.
- Optimal glide speed requires adjustments based on factors like aircraft weight (decreases with lighter weight), headwinds/tailwinds, sinking/rising air, and increased drag from deployed flaps or landing gear.
Key takeaways sponsored by Aviator Pro | Start Your Training ->
See a mistake? Contact us.
