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Flying
Handbook Menu > Slow
Flight, Stalls, and Spins > Slow
Flight > Flight At Less Then Cruise Airspeed
Maneuvering during slow flight demonstrates
the flight characteristics and degree of controllability of
an airplane at less than cruise speeds. The ability to determine
the characteristic control responses at the lower airspeeds
appropriate to takeoffs, departures, and landing approaches
is a critical factor in stall awareness.
As airspeed decreases, control effectiveness
decreases disproportionately. For instance, there may be a certain
loss of effectiveness when the airspeed is reduced from 30 to
20 m.p.h. above the stalling speed, but there will normally
be a much greater loss as the airspeed is further reduced to
10 m.p.h. above stalling. The objective of maneuvering during
slow flight is to develop the pilot’s sense of feel and
ability to use the controls correctly, and to improve proficiency
in performing maneuvers that require slow airspeeds
Maneuvering during slow flight should be performed
using both instrument indications and outside visual reference.
Slow flight should be practiced from straight glides, straight-and-level
flight, and from medium banked gliding and level flight turns.
Slow flight at approach speeds should include slowing the airplane
smoothly and promptly from cruising to approach speeds without
changes in altitude or heading, and determining and using appropriate
power and trim settings. Slow flight at approach speed should
also include configuration changes, such as landing gear and
flaps, while maintaining heading and altitude.
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