This question came from Josh:

I have flown with two different instructors, and both demonstrate and teach slow flight in different ways. What is the proper way to do this that is in the private pilot PTS and is what the DPE will look for?

Thanks Josh for your question. Yes, many instructors will have different techniques for the same maneuver. This can be very frustrating for students. In fact, your DPE may even have his own preferred way of performing this maneuver. Here’s the good news: as long as your perform the maneuver to the PTS standards during your checkride, you should be ok.

So what does the PTS (practical test standards) say about slow flight?

First of all, I would recommend buying a copy of the Private Pilot Practical Test Standards so you can read it for yourself. I’d also recommend keeping this with you in your flight kit during your entire training, review it often. You can also download a copy from the FAA website. The PTS states that the objective of the manuever is to determine that you:

  1. Exhibit knowledge of the elements related to maneuvering during slow flight. (you understand the aerodynamics of the maneuver)
  2. Select an entry altitude that will allow the task to be completed no lower than 1,500 feet (460 meters) AGL.
  3. Establish and maintain an airspeed at which any further increase in angle of attack, increase in load factor, or reduction in power, would result in an immediate stall.
  4. Accomplish coordinated straight-and-level flight, turns, climbs, and descents with landing
    gear and flap configurations specified by the examiner.
  5. Divide attention between airplane control and orientation.
  6. Maintain the specified altitude,+/-100 feet (30 meters); specified heading,+/-10° ; airspeed,+10/-0 knots; and specified angle of bank,+/-10°.

In other words, you should be able to maintain a attitude (and associated airspeed) that if you pitched up (or got any slower) you would almost immediately start to feel the effects of a stall. The examiner is looking to see if you can safely control the airplane at the lower end of the performance sprectrum.

Here is the method that I teach my students, but please don’t take this as the last word. You should always work closely with your instructor for their methods for your particular aircraft and always consult your POH. Here is what I teach when flying an older Cessna 172 with a carburettor.

  • Select altitude that will allow recovery no lower than 1500 feet AGL
  • Clear Area (two 90 deg. clearing turns)
  • Carb Heat On
  • Reduce Power to 1500 RPM
  • If instructed, extend flaps when below flap operating speed
  • As airspeed decreases, adjust pitch to maintain altitude. When airspeed approaches 60 KIAS, gradually increase power between 1800-2100 RPM to maintain altitude. The RPM depends on many things including
    configuration and altitude.
  • Once you’ve stablized at the recommended speed (57 or 60 KIAS) keep the pitch stabilized and make
    small changes in power as necessary to hold your altitude.
  • To recover, smoothly apply full power and adjust your pitch to maintain altitude as airspeed increases.

I hope that this helps some. The key is to work with your instructor (whichever one you pick) and make sure that his / her method conforms to the PTS so you won’t have a problem with your checkride.

Good luck and be sure to let us know how it goes and as always…

Fly Safe!