Objective:
"The objective of this maneuver is to develop the pilot's
coordination, orientation, planning, and feel for maximum performance
flight, and to develop positive control techniques at varying
airspeeds and attitudes." (AFH p. 6-16). In other words,
the student pilot will be using "maximum performance,"
which means flying a plane close to its limits in a precision
way, in this case executing a precise turn while looking for a
maximum-pitch climb.
Content:
Chandelle: a 180-degree turn starting straight-and-level, going
through a 30-degree bank, and ending at wings level with a nose-high
attitude near the minimum controllable airspeed.
Equipment:
Airworthy aircraft. PTS. Visual aids (AFH figure 6-16).
Schedule:
(Can be combined with other maneuvers)
Ground lesson: 15 minutes
Instructor demonstration: 10 minutes
Student practice: 20 minutes
Postflight feedback: 5 minutes
Instructor:
Preflight: (see lesson plan) motivate, explain, have student be
an armchair pilot, list common errors, discuss.
In flight: Demonstrate proper chandelle while talking through
it. Coach and encourage student.
Postflight: Give feedback and suggestions.
Student:
Preflight: Attend to explanation, be an armchair pilot, answer
questions
In flight: Perform new maneuver after demonstration
Postflight: Ask questions.
COMPLETION STANDARDS:
As per the PTS: Exhibits knowledge. Starts at +1500 AGL. Establishes
appropriate entry speed and enters approximately, but not more
than 30º of bank. Simultaneously applies power and pitch
to enter a smooth coordinated climbing turn. At the 90º point
starts a smooth rollout with constant pitch so that at the 180º
point wings are level, +/-10º, at stall speed +5/-0. Reduces
pitch attitude to resume straight-and-level flight at that altitude
+/-50 ft.
Review: Steep turns, climbs, accelerated stalls
Objective: To prepare a student for chandelle practice
once in the air.
Materials: Picture
INTRODUCTION: Attention/motivation: (1 minute)
This maneuver is an introduction to what the AFH calls "maximum
performance flight." We've already done one maximum-performance
thing: the takeoff. What does this term mean? This particular
maneuver will show your ability to control the pitch of a climb
while maintaining a beautiful turn.
DEVELOPMENT: Overview and explanation: ( minutes)
1. CLEAR THE AREA
2. Set cruise power at altitude, and find an abeam point or note
heading
3. Straight-and level flight, and start the maneuver:
4. Enter a 30º coordinated turn.
5. Apply back elevator pressure (and increase power*) to increase
pitch constantly until:
6. At the 90º point, maximum pitch, 30º bank. Start
to roll out.
7. Keep pitch constant and keep rolling out
8. At 180º point, pitch just above stall speed, wings level.
9. Gradually pitch down to resume straight-and-level at that altitude
+/- 50 ft.
NOTE: *1) *Important: in a fixed-pitch prop plane, apply full
throttle smoothly. In a constant-speed prop plane, power may be
left at cruise setting. 2) During rollout after the 90º point,
there will be a slight increase in the vertical component of lift,
so a slight easing of back pressure may be required to keep from
climbing. 3) Since airspeed is constantly decreasing during the
maneuver, effects of torque become more pronounced and appropriate
(right) rudder control will be needed, even in a left turn. Keep
the ball centered.
Armchair piloting: (5 minutes)
Student simulates chandelles and I kibitz.
Common errors: (2 minutes)
Not clearing the area
Uncoordinated flight
Improper pitch/power/bank coordination at the various stages of
the maneuver
Poor planning and timing
Stall
Excessive deviation from heading upon completion
Oral evaluation/quiz and discussion questions:
(3 minutes)
Q: What are the PTS standards?
Q: What yawing effects might you expect during the rollout in
a chandelle to the left? To the right?
Q: Does the plane you're in require a power increase? What are
the criteria, according to the AFH?