Private Pilot (Airplane)
Constant Airspeed Descents Lesson Plan

Introduction:

Attention:

  • Research a mishap case study
  • Discuss how the initial conditions developed into an incident/accident/mishap
  • Relate similar personal experience of the same type of incident/accident/mishap
  • Consider incorporating a case study as a guided scenario

Motivator:

Overview:

Topic:
Time:
Introduction:
0:05
Constant Airspeed Descents:
0:15
Review (quiz):
0:05
Case Studies:
0:05
Total Ground Time:
0:30

Required Materials:

  • Paper, Pen, Marker, Whiteboard

Instructor Actions:

Student Actions:

Private Pilot (Airplane) Constant Airspeed Descents Airman Certification Standards:


Private Pilot (Airplane) Constant Airspeed Descents Knowledge:

The applicant demonstrates understanding of:
  • PA.VIII.C.K1:

    Flight instruments as related to:
    • PA.VIII.C.K1a:
      Instrument limitations and potential errors.
    • PA.VIII.C.K1b:
      Indication of the aircraft attitude.
    • PA.VIII.C.K1c:
      Function and operation.
    • PA.VIII.C.K1d:
      Proper instrument cross-check techniques.

Private Pilot (Airplane) Constant Airspeed Descents Risk Management:

The applicant is able to identify, assess, and mitigate risk associated with:
  • PA.VIII.C.R1:

    Instrument flying hazards, including failure to maintain visual flight rules (VFR), spatial disorientation, loss of control, fatigue, stress, and emergency off airport landings.
  • PA.VIII.C.R2:

    When to seek assistance or declare an emergency in a deteriorating situation.
  • PA.VIII.C.R3:

    >Collision hazards.
  • PA.VIII.C.R4:

    Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
  • PA.VIII.C.R5:

    Fixation and omission.
  • PA.VIII.C.R6:

    Instrument Interpretation.
  • PA.VIII.C.R7:

    Control application solely by reference to instruments.
  • PA.VIII.C.R8:

    Trimming the aircraft.

Private Pilot (Airplane) Constant Airspeed Descents Skills:

The applicant exhibits the skill to:
  • PA.VIII.C.S1:

    Transition to the descent pitch attitude and power setting on an assigned heading using proper instrument cross-check and interpretation, and coordinated flight control application.
  • PA.VIII.C.S2:

    Descend at a constant airspeed to specific altitudes in straight flight and turns.
  • PA.VIII.C.S3:

    Level off at the assigned altitude and maintain altitude ±200 feet, heading ±20°, and airspeed ±10 knots.

Re-Motivation:

Closure:

  • Advise students that this lesson will be used as a starting point for the next lesson
  • Assign study materials for the next lesson

Conclusion: