Attitude flying: attitude, control feel, and inertia lag
Cruise attitude = datum: level flight, constant altitude and airspeed, wings parallel to horizon, recommended cruise power. Other attitudes measured against it and the horizon.
| Attitude | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Pitch | Nose above or below datum (nose-up / nose-down) |
| Bank | Wings inclined relative to datum |
Handling the controls:
- Control column: firmly but lightly, with fingers.
- Choking (grab and squeeze) destroys feel.
- Feet on rudder pedals, most weight on heels, toes free for fine touch.
Control response (cruise speed = design datum):
| Airspeed | Controls | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Above cruise | Firmer | More reaction for same movement |
| Below cruise | More yielding | More movement needed for same attitude change |
Yaw and inertia:
- Uncontrolled yaw (turbulence, power changes, misused rudder) can cause slip or skid, ultimately a roll. Control to stay coordinated.
- Inertia resists path change; flight path follows attitude change after slight lag.
Trap: choking the column (hard "positive" grip) kills feel; grip firm but light.
References
- TP 1102 Ex.5 Attitudes and Movements (Attitudes, Handling the Controls, Control Response, Inertia)