5.3 - Glide Slope Control Using Airbrakes

Lesson Objective

During this lesson, the learner will learn to use the airbrakes to regulate the descent rate so that they will arrive at the aim point at the correct altitude and airspeed.

Regulatory Requirement

Pre-Solo pilot (Student Pilot and Transition Pilots): 

• 14 CFR 61.87(i)(16) Flight at traffic pattern altitudes and entry procedures.

Private Pilot Test Candidate: 

• 14 CFR 61.107(b)(6)(iv) Launches and landings (specifically the Traffic Pattern task).
• 14 CFR 61.105(b)(10) Safe and efficient operation of aircraft... (understanding standard traffic pattern geometry and right-of-way rules).

Content

• Use the airbrakes to intercept the half-airbrake gilde slope.
• Open and close the airbrakes smoothly. 
• Use caution in making adjustments to the airbrakes when close to the ground
• Wind gradient

Completion Standard

The learner will use the airbrakes to arrive at the aim point with the airbrakes halfway deployed, while maintaining the specified airspeed with +10/-5 knots.