6.24. Cloverleaf (Figure 6.11)

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6.24.1. Objective. Combine elements of the loop, roll, and split-S into a fluid maneuver.

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6.24.2. Description. The cloverleaf is composed of four identical maneuvers, each of which changes heading by 90 degrees. The pull-up is similar to the loop, although with less G loading. The top part is a rolling pull to the horizon 90 degrees displaced from the original heading. The pulling roll resembles a nose-high recovery. The lower part or pull through is flown like a split- S. The maneuver is complete in level flight after four leaves in the same direction. Fewer than four leaves may be performed when practicing the maneuver.

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6.24.2.1. Airspeed - 200-220 KIAS.

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6.24.2.2. Power - 80% to MAX.

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6.24.2.3. Attitude - Wings level for pull-up and pull through.

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6.24.2.4. Altitude - Approximately 3,000 feet above and 1,000 feet below entry altitude.

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6.24.2.5. FCP visual reference:

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6.24.2.5.1. Wingtips equidistant from horizon in pull-up.

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6.24.2.5.2. Feet on horizon when 45 degrees nose high.

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6.24.3. Procedure. Begin in straight-and-level flight, with briefed entry airspeed and power setting. Pick a reference point 90 degrees off the nose in the desired direction. The initial part of the maneuver is a straight pull-up, similar to a loop, except utilizing a lower G loading (2-3 Gs). As the aircraft reaches 45 degrees nose high (feet on the horizon), begin a coordinated roll toward the 90-degree reference point. Allow the nose to continue climbing during the roll so the maneuver is slow, lazy, and round. Coordinate the pull and roll so the nose passes through the reference point with the aircraft wings level, inverted, and at a relatively low airspeed (approximately 120 KIAS). Do not stare at the airspeed indicator, but note the airspeed at the inverted point. Consider discontinuing the maneuver if airspeed is above approximately 150- 160 KIAS or below 100 KIAS. Keep the wings level and pull through the bottom of the maneuver as in the split-S. To avoid excessive G and airspeed at the bottom, attempt to max perform (as in the split-S) once the nose passes the horizon. Approaching the horizon in the pull-through, reduce back pressure to allow acceleration to entry airspeed at the horizon. Complete three additional leaves in the same direction.

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6.24.4. Technique. Use section lines or prominent roads off the wingtip in the direction of turn to visually identify 90-degree points (off the shoulder or anti-collision strobe light flash guard). Begin roll when feet are on the horizon. A combination of roll and pull is necessary to be inverted, wings level over the reference point. Cross-check G load at the horizon after each pull through the bottom. Reaching 200-220 KIAS at the horizon, G may then have to be reduced to the 2-3 Gs required for the initial pull-up by releasing back stick pressure.

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