PPL.VIII.C — Constant Airspeed Descents

Objective: To determine that the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with attitude instrument flying during constant airspeed descents solely by reference to instruments.

Knowledge

The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

• PA.VIII.C.K1Flight instruments as related to:
  • PA.VIII.C.K1aa. Sensitivity, limitations, and potential errors in unusual attitudes
  • PA.VIII.C.K1bb. Correlation (pitch instruments/bank instruments)
  • PA.VIII.C.K1cc. Function and operation
  • PA.VIII.C.K1dd. Proper instrument cross-check techniques

Risk Management

The applicant demonstrates the ability to identify, assess and mitigate risks, encompassing:

• PA.VIII.C.R1Instrument flying hazards to include failure to maintain VFR, spatial disorientation, loss of control, fatigue, stress, and emergency off airport landings.
• PA.VIII.C.R2Failure to seek assistance or declare an emergency in a deteriorating situation.
• PA.VIII.C.R3Collision hazards, to include aircraft, terrain, obstacles, and wires.
• PA.VIII.C.R4Distractions, loss of situational awareness, and/or improper task management.

Skills

The applicant demonstrates the ability to:

• PA.VIII.C.S1Transition to the descent pitch attitude and power setting on an assigned heading using proper instrument cross-check and interpretation, and coordinated flight control application.
• PA.VIII.C.S2Demonstrate descents at a constant airspeed to specific altitudes in straight flight and turns.
• PA.VIII.C.S3Level off at the assigned altitude and maintain altitude ±200 feet, heading ±20°, and airspeed ±10 knots.