BY ORDER OF THE SECRETARY OF THE AIR FORCE AIR FORCE ...

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AFMAN 11-217V1 3 JANUARY 2005
desired rate of turn for a predetermined time. Start timing when control pressures are
applied to begin the turn. Control pressures are applied to rollout when the time has
elapsed. As an example, assume that a 45° heading change is desired using a 4-
minute turn needle. The aircraft's true airspeed is relatively high making it advisable
to make a single needle width turn (1 1/2° per second). In this case, 30 seconds
should elapse from the time control pressures are applied to enter the turn until
control pressures are applied to rollout.
2.4.4.3. Alternate method. Although timed turns are preferred when using the
magnetic compass as a heading reference, there is an alternate method. Turns to
headings can be made by applying control pressures to roll out of a turn when
reaching a predetermined "lead" point on the magnetic compass. When using the
magnetic compass in this manner, do not exceed 15° of bank in order to minimize dip
error. Dip error must also be considered in computing the lead point for rollout. This
is particularly noticeable when turning to a heading of north or south. For example,
turns to north require a normal lead point plus a number of degrees equal to the flight
latitude. Turns to south require turning past the desired heading by the number of
degrees equal to the flight latitude minus the normal lead. Dip error is negligible
when turning to east or west; therefore, use the normal amount of lead when turning
to either of these headings.
2.4.5. Climbs and Descents. Climbing and descending maneuvers are classified into two
general types -- constant airspeed and constant rate. The constant airspeed maneuver is
accomplished by maintaining a constant power indication and varying the pitch attitude
to maintain a specific airspeed. The constant rate maneuver is accomplished by varying
both power and pitch to maintain constant a specific airspeed and vertical velocity.
Either type of climb or descent may be performed while maintaining a constant heading
or while turning. These maneuvers should be practiced using airspeeds, configurations,
and altitudes corresponding to those which will be used in actual instrument flight.
2.4.5.1. Constant Airspeed Climbs and Descents.
2.4.5.1.1. Power setting. Before entering the climb or descent, choose a power
setting and estimate the amount of pitch attitude change required to maintain the
airspeed. Normally, the pitch and power changes are made simultaneously.
2.4.5.1.2. Power change. The power change should be smooth, uninterrupted,
and at a rate commensurate with the rate of pitch change. In some aircraft, even
though a constant throttle setting is maintained, the power may change with
altitude. Therefore, it may be necessary to occasionally crosscheck the power
indicators.
2.4.5.1.3. Pitch and power changes. While the power is being changed, refer to
the attitude indicator and smoothly accomplish the estimated pitch change. Since
smooth, slow power applications will also produce pitch changes, only slight
control pressures are needed to establish the pitch change. Additionally, very
little trim change is required since the airspeed is constant. With a moderate
amount of practice, the pitch and power changes can be properly coordinated so
the airspeed will remain within close limits as the climb or descent is entered.