7.21. Level Off.

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7.21.1. Objective. Smoothly level off at desired altitude with power set to attain or maintain desired airspeed.

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7.21.2. Description. Change of pitch to reduce vertical speed at a specific altitude combined with power adjustment to meet desired airspeed.

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7.21.3. Procedure. To level off at airspeed below climb speed, lower the nose to level flight and reduce power below the setting required to maintain the lower airspeed. To level off at a higher airspeed, leave the PCL at MAX or set power above the setting required to maintain the greater airspeed. Adjust power approaching target airspeed and apply trim. Use similar procedures for a level off from a descent.

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7.21.4. Technique. Use 10 percent of vertical speed (from VSI) as a lead point to begin level off; for example, begin level off 200 feet below desired altitude when VSI indicates 2,000 fpm. At the lead point, cut the pitch in half, and then continue pitch change to smoothly level off. If intermediate level offs are required, it is permissible to maintain climb airspeed or accelerate to the appropriate cruise speed for that altitude.

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