Nashville CFI

Steep Spirals

• A constant gliding turn of a constant radius around a point on ground
• Steepest bank not to exceed 60°
• Must start at altitude allowing 3 turns and termination above 1000 AGL

Steep Spiral Howto

• Select a reference point on the ground. A 4-way crossroad is best if possible.
• Airspeed below Va (17" MP in Bonanza)
• Enter downwind and when above point pull power to idle
• Pitch and trim for best glide airspeed
• Enter steepest bank and adjust as necessary to retain constant radius around point
• To maintain airspeed, pitch down during steep banks and higher pitch during shallow banks
• Advance throttle and clear engine after every full turn

Common Mistakes

• Failure to clear area
• Failure to maintain airspeed
• Poor coordination
• Inadequate wind corrections
• Failure to clear engine

ACS Test Standards

• Selects altitude which allows 3 turns and recovery by 1000 AGL
• Selects suitable reference point
• Maintains airspeed +/- 10 knots
• Rolls out toward object or specified heading +/- 10°