2.9. Straight-and-level Flight (Figure 2.7).

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2.9.1. Straight-and-level flight requires familiarity with flight instruments and visual cues.

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2.9.1.1. To fly in level flight, consciously fix reference points on the aircraft in relation to the horizon, cross-check this relationship with the flight instruments. In addition to outside references, refer to the electronic attitude director indicator (EADI), altimeter, and vertical speed indicator (VSI).

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2.9.1.2. In straight, level, and unaccelerated flight at 200 knots indicated airspeed (KIAS), the level flight visual pitch picture within the canopy bow is approximately half- ground/half-sky and the wings equidistant from the horizon. At higher airspeeds, hold the nose at a lower attitude to maintain level flight; at lower airspeeds, hold the nose at a higher attitude.

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2.9.1.3. Familiarity with the design, location, and purpose of flight instrumentation speeds up the composite cross-check (combine outside visual references and the flight instruments) and aids in detecting deviations while they are still small. Good aircraft control is a continuous succession of minor, almost imperceptible, corrections to keep the aircraft on the desired flight path.

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2.9.1.4. When straight and level, trim the aircraft in all three axes. A trim change is necessary when continuous control stick or rudder pressure is required to maintain the desired attitude. Straight-and-level flight requires almost no pressure on the controls if the aircraft is properly trimmed and the air is smooth. However, when flying through turbulence, the flight attitude may change abruptly.

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2.9.2. A common straight-and-level flight error is to inadvertently apply force to the control stick due to the weight of the pilot’s arm. Minimize this by resting the forearm on the right thigh.

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