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The Ultimate Guide to Ground Reference Maneuvers

Pilot Institute

Expect an increase in groundspeed, and use smooth inputs on the controls to return to your original heading. Tips Stability First: Ensure the aircrafts stability and trim are set before entering the maneuver. Common Mistakes to Avoid Not adequately scanning for hazards before and during the maneuver.

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Danger lurks in circling approaches

Air Facts

FAA parameters are no lower than 500’ AGL for stabilized criteria What specific runway lighting do we expect to see? The rule of thumb is VSI = ½ groundspeed times 10. At what AGL altitude will the aircraft be in a stable/configured condition? (No No later than). Be fully configured and on speed prior to receiving landing clearance.

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How to Improve Your Landings

Pilot Institute

The easiest way to achieve this is by flying a stabilized approach. So, what is a stabilized approach? A stabilized approach requires the pilot to establish and maintain a constant angle glidepath towards an aiming point. You should arrive at the threshold on the centerline at the proper height and speed each time.

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