Aeroplane upset criteria
Aeroplane upset: unintentionally exceeding parameters normally flown in operations or training (AC 700-031 s.2.3(1)(b)).
Upset if any one is true:
| Parameter | Upset when |
|---|---|
| Pitch, nose up | greater than 25 degrees |
| Pitch, nose down | greater than 10 degrees |
| Bank | greater than 45 degrees |
| Airspeed | within pitch and bank limits, but inappropriate for the conditions |
- Phase of flight matters: at high-altitude cruise, smaller pitch or bank can be an upset (AC 700-031 s.5.3 note 1).
- Stall and upset separate: stalled without exceeding pitch/bank limits; upset without stall.
Trap: within pitch/bank limits at inappropriate airspeed is still an upset.
References
- AC 700-031 s.2.3(1)(b)
- AC 700-031 s.5.3 note 1