Pre-Solo Training Program Flight Briefing: Lesson 8 Ground Reference Maneuvers In cooperation with Mid Island Air Service, Inc. Brookhaven, NY (Michael Bellenir, CFI)

Lesson 8 Objectives During this briefing, you will learn how to perform ground reference maneuvers. These maneuvers will increase your understanding of wind correction, develop your ability to multi-task, and hone your flying skills. Upon completion of this briefing, you will practice flying turns around a point, S-turns, and a rectangular course, demonstrating proper wind correction techniques. Ground reference maneuvers are flown at traffic pattern altitude and airspeed. These maneuvers will prepare you for flying the traffic pattern with precision and confidence.

Effect of Wind on Ground Track We’ve already seen that wind can have an affect on the airplane’s track over the ground.

Turning Radius Airplane speed affects its ability to turn. A faster speed requires more distance to accomplish a turn than a lower speed. Because wind affects the groundspeed of the airplane, it also affects the radius of turns over the ground.

Turning Radius

Wind Correction To fly the airplane relative to fixed points on the ground, you must correct for winds. Ground reference maneuvers develop your skill to correct for drift and varying turn radius caused by the wind. Three specific maneuvers will be demonstrated and practiced, to develop and test your knowledge and skill in implementing wind correction techniques: Turns around a point S-Turns Rectangular course

Turns Around a Point Objective: To fly a turn with a constant radius relative to a fixed point on the ground. The wind component will be constantly changing, affecting the radius of the turn relative to the point on the ground. To compensate for changes in turn radius, the bank angle will need constant adjustment throughout the maneuver. You will strive to maintain a constant altitude and airspeed throughout the maneuver.

Turns Around a Point

S-Turns Objective: To fly two identical half circles along a straight line on the ground, arriving at specific headings over specific points. The wind component will be constantly changing, requiring changes in bank angle to maintain the desired track. The turn rate must be adjusted to arrive at certain headings over certain points during the maneuver. You will strive to maintain a constant altitude and airspeed throughout the maneuver.

S-Turns

Rectangular Course Objective: to fly a course that results in the ground track being shaped like a rectangle (not a trapezoid). The wind component is different on each leg, so proper corrections must be made. Will be used in the traffic pattern; runway is the reference on the ground. You will strive to maintain a constant altitude and airspeed throughout the maneuver.

Rectangular Course

Flying Ground Reference Maneuvers To fly a ground reference maneuver successfully, it is important to pick ground references that are suitable and appropriate. Turns Around a Point: One small but easily visible point, viewable from all directions. S-Turns: A long, straight line oriented perpendicular to the wind direction. Rectangular Course: At least one straight line or rectangle pattern on the ground (intersection of roads, farm field, etc.).

Reference Point Selection These maneuvers are performed about 1000’ above the ground. When picking reference points, consider the following factors: Avoid selecting a point near high terrain or obstructions. Avoid selecting a point over a congested area. Be considerate of people on the ground. Be mindful of surrounding airspace and air traffic. Select an area that provides several suitable emergency landing sites within safe gliding distance. Pick points that don’t move. In perfectly calm conditions, a point moving at a steady speed and direction could simulate wind, but using moving points for reference generally defeats the purpose of the maneuver.

Flying Ground Reference Maneuvers You must divide your attention appropriately between monitoring your ground track, maintaining your altitude and airspeed, maintaining your awareness of your position, and the effects of wind, all while looking for other traffic. Prioritize! Priority One: Keep airplane under control Priority Two: Maintain separation from other aircraft Priority Three: Fly the maneuver Enter the maneuver downwind (with a tailwind, which gives you the highest ground speed). This will allow you to make your steeper banks first (while altitude and airspeed are under best control), and get a feel for the wind strength. Avoid staying over one location for extended periods of time. Don’t annoy people on the ground any more than necessary.

Review Questions How do you correct for a crosswind when flying a rectangular course? How do bank and groundspeed vary when turning into a headwind? What flight operation do ground reference maneuvers prepare you for? What are the considerations in choosing a reference point for ground reference maneuvers? Where should you enter a ground reference maneuver? Why? Write down your answers before continuing to next slide

Review Answers How do you correct for a crosswind when flying a rectangular course? Turn the nose of the plane slightly into the wind, to track straight. How do bank and groundspeed vary when turning into a headwind? Both decrease. What flight operation do ground reference maneuvers prepare you for? Flying the traffic pattern. What are the considerations in choosing a reference point for ground reference maneuvers? Avoid high terrain, obstructions, congested areas; be mindful of airspace and traffic; choose an emergency landing area within gliding range; pick points that do not move. Where should you enter a ground reference maneuver? Why? Enter downwind. Gives you maximum bank and groundspeed at start of maneuver, to get a feel for winds. Review any missed questions before continuing to today’s flight.

On Today’s Flight Be as precise as possible while enroute to the practice area. Hold altitude and heading exactly. Be smooth. Maintain coordination and positive airplane control. Maintain orientation and track with respect to ground reference points. If you find yourself drifting too far away, increase bank to get back on course If you get too close, decrease bank or level off to get back on course.

Today in the Practice Area Make appropriate wind corrections for all pattern legs. Also make proper wind corrections in the turns. Flying into a headwind, shallow the turn (decrease bank) Flying with a tailwind, steepen the turn (increase bank) Try to visualize the wind direction at all times. Remember that these are ground reference maneuvers. Keep your eyes outside, not glued to the instrument panel. Watch for traffic. Make frequent traffic calls. Use all your other senses to maintain constant airspeed and altitude. Thanks to Mid Island Air Service, Inc. Brookhaven, NY (Michael Bellenir, CFI)