Remove Stability Remove Turbulence Remove Weight-Shift-Control
article thumbnail

How to Read a Windsock

Pilot Institute

Stability : The gradual narrowing of the windsock helps stabilize it in various wind conditions, reducing erratic movement and providing clearer readings. Moving erratically : Conditions are gusty or turbulent. The best windsocks strike a balance between weight and strength. Extended halfway: Winds are around 7-8 knots.

Knot 98
article thumbnail

Approachable Excellence

Plane and Pilot

Lets go back to that time in postwar GA when the sands shifted quickly. The Ercoupe was designed with only two controls, roll and pitch, so it couldnt be kicked out in a crosswindit had to withstand landing in a crab. Thorp joined the Piper design team during the Cherokees development; his own Sky Scooter used a stabilator.

Insiders

Sign Up for our Newsletter

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Trending Sources

article thumbnail

Everything You Need To Know About Ailerons

Pilot Institute

These control surfaces dictate the aircraft’s roll, and this allows it to bank smoothly through turns or even recover from turbulence. Have you ever wondered how pilots keep control at high speeds, during stalls, or even when systems fail? Key Takeaways Ailerons control the aircrafts roll by adjusting lift on each wing.

Aileron 90
article thumbnail

What Is a Flat Spin?

Pilot Institute

Key Takeaways A flat spin is a dangerous, level-flight spin with reduced control effectiveness. A flat spin happens when the center of gravity shifts too far aft (toward the tail), and the aircraft’s rotation becomes more horizontal. Ready to become a safer pilot? Let’s get started! An aft center of gravity increases flat spin risk.

article thumbnail

What Is a Variable-Sweep Wing? How Swing Wings Work

Pilot Institute

The design adds weight, complexity, and maintenance needs. These systems control the wings, but engineers also take structural integrity and aerodynamic balance into consideration. These movements are controlled by hydraulic or electric actuators, which are managed by onboard computers or you, the pilot.