Yaw String

Introduction to Glider Flying > Flight Instruments > Magnetic Compass > Yaw String

The most effective, yet least expensive, slip/skid indicator is made from a piece of yarn mounted in the free airstream in a place easily visible to the pilot as shown in Figure 4-20.

Figure 4-20. The yaw string and Inclinometer.

The yaw string helps you coor-dinate rudder and aileron inputs. When the controls are properly coordinated, the yarn points straight back, aligned with the longitudinal axis of the glider. During a slipping turn, the tail of the yaw string will be offset toward the outside of the turn. To center the yaw string in a slipping turn, add pressure to the rudder pedal that is opposite the tail of the yaw string. During a skidding turn, the tail of the yaw string will be offset toward the inside of the turn. To center the yaw string in a skid-ding turn, add pressure to the rudder pedal that is oppo-site the tail of the yaw string.