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

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AFMAN 11-217V1 3 JANUARY 2005
heading or while turning. (For a constant heading, pitch and bank control techniques
are the same as discussed under straight and level flight.) During a turn, the change in
lift vector affects pitch control. For example, when entering a turn after a constant
airspeed climb or descent has been established, the pitch attitude will have to be
decreased slightly to maintain the airspeed. When entering a turn while performing a
rate climb or descent, be prepared to increase the pitch attitude slightly to maintain
the vertical velocity and add power to maintain the airspeed.
2.4.6. Level off. Level offs are required during all phases of instrument flight. The high
rates of climbs or descents possible in some aircraft can cause an overshoot of the desired
altitude. The following techniques are designed to allow for a precise, easily controlled
level-off maneuver.
2.4.6.1. Desired airspeed. At least 1,000 feet below or above the desired altitude,
reduce the pitch attitude to obtain a maximum of 1,000 to 2,000 fpm rate of climb or
descent. Adjust the power to maintain the desired airspeed. Knowledge of
approximate or known values of power and pitch simplifies aircraft control during
this phase of flight. When the lead point for level off is reached, perform a normal
level off.
2.4.6.1.1. NOTE: At 1,000 feet below or above the desired altitude, a pitch
change of one-half the previous pitch angle will normally provide a more
controllable vertical velocity at the lead point for level off.
2.4.6.2. Pitch change for level off. The total pitch change required for level off can
be estimated by dividing the vertical velocity by the mach number times 1,000 (or
miles per minute times 100). For example, an aircraft climbing or descending at .6
mach with a vertical velocity of 3,600 fpm would require approximately 6° of pitch
change to obtain a level flight attitude.
3,600 fpm = 6° or 3,600 fpm = 6°
0.6 mach x 1,000 6 mpm x 100
2.4.6.3. Selecting level-off point. Upon approaching the desired altitude, select a
predetermined level off lead point. As a guide, use 10 percent of the vertical velocity.
Smoothly adjust the power to an approximate setting required for level flight, and
simultaneously change the pitch attitude to maintain the desired altitude.
2.5. Basic Aircraft Control Maneuvers.
2.5.1. Vertical "S" Series. The vertical "S" maneuvers are proficiency maneuvers
designed to improved a pilot's crosscheck and aircraft control. There are four types: the
A, B, C, and D.
2.5.1.1. Vertical "S"- A. (Figure 2.5) The vertical "S"-A maneuver is a continuous
series of rate climbs and descents flown on a constant heading. The altitude flown
between changes of vertical direction and the rate of vertical velocity used must be
compatible with aircraft performance. The vertical "S"- A if flown at final approach
airspeed and configuration is excellent for practicing entry to and control of precision
glide paths. The transition from descent to climb can be used to simulate the missed
approach. However, allow sufficient altitude for "cleaning up" the aircraft and
establishing the climb portion of the maneuver. Level off, reestablish configuration