Aerodynamics And Approach Angles

Aerodynamics And Approach Angles

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One of the toughest challenges in flight training is learning to fly a successful approach. Pilots need to understand the aerodynamics and approach angles involved in a smooth, controlled approach in order to make it a much easier feat to achieve.

The Angle of Approach

When we discuss aerodynamics and approach angles we are referring to a flight's landing phase. It is vital that pilots achieve the correct approach angle as they come down to the runway, in order to affect a successful landing. The approach angle is the angle between the ground and the plane's flight path as it approaches the runway. The aerodynamics of the plane affect both the performance and the attitude of the plane as it approaches the runway.

Flying a good approaches requires control of the aircraft's speed and approach angle in order to reach the landing point safely, while control of the aircraft's speed is also needed to complete the landing itself. If flying in visual conditions, then the pilot will need to develop visual references in order to ascertain the correct angle of approach.

The Aerodynamics of the Approach

Approach flying is all about the aircraft's altitude and speed. The lift required for an approach is marginally less than the weight of the aircraft; therefore it needs to descend at an angle of approximately 3 degrees in relation to the landing zone. As the speed of the aircraft changes, so the wing's angle in relation to the flow of air needs to change, in order to generate the required amount of lift. The wing should be completely flat into the airflow at high speeds, while at slower speeds (while it slows down) the angle of the wing will increase towards the air flow in order to produce the same lift.

The result of all these speed vs. lift permutations is that the landing approach needs to be flown at a speed that is constant, so that the altitude of the aircraft is fixed relating to the flight path, ensuring that the pilot has the visual references necessary to ascertain the approach angle.

Flying the Angle of Approach

Flying the angle of approach correctly requires a combination of altitude control and power. Experienced pilots will change power not to increase or decrease the speed of the plane, but to maneuver the plane up or down towards the correct angle of approach. The stick or yoke must be manipulated as power is increased or decreased, to assist with correcting the plane onto the right flight path.

As the plane reaches the correct approach angle, the pilot needs to apply control movements and reverse power in order to set the aircraft's path correctly. With practice, pilots will master the use of both power and controls in a combined operation so that they can fly smoothly into the correct angle of approach while maintaining correct airspeed.

About the Author:
Author: Andrew Berrey, webmaster and site owner of http://www.flightbytes.co a video and media sharing website for aviation enthusiasts. Upload your videos for free or just have a look at all the other videos. We also have articles on the site and we are always adding fresh content for all our members. Membership is free and so is uploading your videos.



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