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Flight Test Exercises - Ex. 11 - Slow Flight

Aim

To determine the candidate’s ability to establish the aircraft in flight near minimum controllable airspeed as indicated by a near-constant stall warning or aerodynamic buffet, to maintain flight control, to manoeuvre, while preventing a stall, at that speed and to recover promptly and smoothly to normal flight on command of the examiner. 

Description

At an operationally safe altitude that would allow recovery from an inadvertent stall at or above 2,000 feet AGL or the minimum altitude recommended by the manufacturer, whichever is higher, the candidate will establish and manoeuvre the aircraft in flight near minimum controllable airspeed.  Airspeed may be increased slightly during a turn or in turbulent conditions.  A slight increase in airspeed while turning or in turbulence is acceptable as the stall speed increases in these conditions.

Performance Criteria

Assessment will be based on the candidate’s ability to:

  1. complete appropriate safety precautions before entering slow flight;
  2. maintain an effective lookout;
  3. establish and maintain the aeroplane in flight near minimum controllable airspeed as indicated by a near-constant stall warning or aerodynamic buffeting, with an aircraft configuration appropriate for that speed range;
  4. demonstrate coordinated straight and level flight and a level turn, with an angle of bank of 15 degrees in flight near minimum controllable airspeed;
  5. prevent a stall;
  6. maintain specified altitudes (±100 feet), headings (±10°) and angles of bank (±5°);
  7. roll out on specified headings (±10°); and
  8. on command, recover promptly and smoothly to normal flight.

Note:  Avoid prolonged periods in slow flight to prevent possible overheating of some engine components.

Date modified:
2010-05-20