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

AFMAN 11-217V1 3 JANUARY 2005 31
2.4.5.1.3.1. NOTE: Remember, the initial pitch attitude change was an
estimated amount to maintain the airspeed constant at the new power setting.
The airspeed indicator must be crosschecked to determine the need for
subsequent pitch adjustments.
2.4.5.1.4. Airspeed deviation. When making a pitch adjustment to correct for an
airspeed deviation, the airspeed indicator will not reflect an immediate change.
The results of pitch attitude changes can be determined more quickly by referring
to the vertical velocity indicator. For example, while climbing, you note that the
airspeed is remaining slightly high and that a small pitch adjustment is required.
If the pitch adjustment results in a small increase of vertical velocity, you know
(even though the airspeed may not show a change) that the pitch correction was
approximately correct.
2.4.5.1.5. Inadvertent pitch change. In a similar manner, the vertical velocity
indication will help you note that you have made an inadvertent change in pitch
attitude. For example, assume that the desired airspeed and the vertical velocity
have been remaining constant but the pitch attitude is allowed to change. The
vertical velocity indicator will generally show the result of this inadvertent pitch
change more quickly than the airspeed indicator. Therefore, the vertical velocity
indicator is an excellent aid in maintaining the airspeed constant.
2.4.5.1.6. Level-off lead point. Upon approaching the desired altitude, select a
predetermined level off lead point. Ten percent of the vertical velocity in feet is a
good estimate for the level-off lead point. At the level-off lead point, smoothly
adjust the power to an approximate setting required for level flight and
simultaneously change the pitch attitude to maintain the desired altitude.
2.4.5.2. Rate Climbs and Descents.
2.4.5.2.1. Maintain vertical velocity and airspeed. Rate climbs and descents are
accomplished by maintaining both a desired vertical velocity and airspeed. They
are proficiency maneuvers designed to practice the techniques used during
instrument approaches. Pitch attitude controls the desired vertical velocity, and
power controls the desired airspeed. Proper control techniques require
coordinated pitch and power changes or adjustments.
2.4.5.2.2. Estimate pitch change. Before initiating a rate climb or descent,
estimate the amount of pitch change required to produce the desired vertical
velocity and the amount of power change required to maintain the airspeed
constant. Enter the climb or descent by simultaneously changing the pitch and
power the predetermined amount. Crosscheck the performance instruments to
determine the resultant changes.
2.4.5.2.3. Vertical velocity. A crosscheck of the vertical velocity will indicate
the need for subsequent pitch adjustments. A crosscheck of the airspeed will
indicate the need for subsequent power adjustments. When approaching the
desired altitude, use normal level-off techniques.
2.4.5.3. Pitch and Bank Attitude Control During Climbing and Descending Turns.
Constant airspeed or rate climbs and descents may be performed on a constant