3d - Minimum Controllable Airspeed
Required for Solo: 61.87(i)(8)
Required for Private: PTS V(A), IX(A)
Lesson 3d - Minimum Controllable Airspeed
Lesson Objective
The student will learn how to fly the glider on the cusp of a stall -- without allowing the glider to actually stall. If performed correctly, the glider will show many or all of the six signs of a stall. Also, the student will be expected to perform shallow-banked turns while flying in Minimum Controllable Airspeed (MCA).
Regulatory Requirement
- §61.87(i)(8)
- Private Pilot Practical Test Standard V-A
- Private Pilot Practical Test Standard IX-A
Content
- Performance of the glider at MCA in level flight.
- Performance of the glider at MCA during turns.
- Performance of the glider at MCA without causing the aircraft to stall.
- Performance of the glider at MCA while showing the six signs of a stall (without stalling).
Completion Standards
The student must be able to perform:
- Appropriate clearing turns before the maneuver
- MCA in level flight
- MCA in turns.
Prerequisite Study
- Glider Flying Handbook (2024), Chapter 7, page 7-45,46 Slow Flight