In this discussion, let's briefly look at few "Critical Angles" we really should clearly understand as pilots. For some, this will be a confirmation exercise; for others, it may be first time these three critical angles have been brought together as a combined discussion. In either case, remaining clear on aerodynamic basics is a core component to ensuring safety of flight each and every day. With the understanding this short snippet of information below is meant to be a discussion generator, let's proceed as follows:
1. Review the brief definitions of each critical angle, and then
2. Watch the included flash animation below.
DEFINTIONS:
Three important angle definitions are crucial to fully comprehending the relationship between Angle of Attack (AOA), Pitch and the aircraft’s Flight Path. Please review the definitions below followed by a viewing of the included flash animation.
Angle of Attack:
• Is the difference between the pitch attitude and the flight path angle.
• Determines whether the aerodynamic surfaces on the airplane are stalled or not.
Flight Path Angle:
• Is the angle between the flight path vector and the horizon.
• Is also the climb or descent angle.
On the newest generation jet transports, this angle can be displayed on the primary flight display (PFD) as shown in the animation below. It can also be inferred from the vertical speed indicator (VSI) or from the observed rate of change of the altimeter in relation to a known ground speed.
Pitch Attitude or Pitch Angle:
• Is the angle between the longitudinal axis of the airplane and the horizon.
• Is displayed on the attitude indicator or artificial horizon.
Dumping the "Techno Jargon"...
Here's how you explain these concepts to your great grandmother who would rather drive from NY to LA than fly a lap around the traffic pattern with you. You'll need to patient, however, with a little help from your favorite airplane model in-hand, she'll get it.
Pitch:
Is where the wing is pointing
Pitch Angle:
Is the angle between Pitch and the Horizon
Flight Path:
Is where the wing is going through the air
Flight Path Angle:
Is the angle between the Flight Path and the Horizon
Angle of Attack:
Is the angle between Pitch and Flight Path
FLASH ANIMATION SHOWING PITCH, AOA AND FLIGHT PATH
This animation depicts these three critical angles in a developing stalled flight scenario.
Turn up the volume and then click the link box below.
Open the following Link in a New Window or Tab:
Flash Link: http://www.apstraining.com/flash/Pitch-Angle.swf
Flash Excerpt from APS Upset Recovery CBT Course: http://www.apstraining.com/demo/
