Objective

The student will gain a working knowledge of pivotal altitudes and the technique required for proper execution of eights on pylons.

Elements

• pivotal altitude calculation and how it relates to groundspeed
• groundspeed and how, in conjunction with altitude, it allows us to hold the pylon

Execution

• selecting pylons at least 1 mile apart
• setup (BGUMP) and entry procedure
  • 110 knots (Arrow)
  • appropriate pivotal altitude
  • downwind entry (direct or 45°)
• line-of-sight reference to pylon
• timing turn entry and rollout
• holding the pylon
  • altitude-groundspeed relationship, correcting with pitch
  • coordination and how to avoid cheating with the rudder
  • smooth, accurate inputs
• emergency landing considerations

Schedule

Introduction	05
Main body	25
Application	05
Conclusion	05
Total	40 minutes

Equipment

• model aircraft
• whiteboard and markers
• Airplane Flying Handbook
• UND standardization manual

Instructor actions

Explain the theory behind, and the appropriate execution of, eights on pylons using oral quizzing and guided discussion. Illustrate various scenarios using the whiteboard and model aircraft.

Student actions

The student should have previously read the section in the Airplane Flying Handbook, participate in the guided discussion, and be able to explain the basics of eights on pylons when quizzed on specifics and procedures.

Completion standards

The lesson will be complete when the student can demonstrate and explain the maneuver and calculate pivotal altitudes. In the aircraft, the maneuver should be completed to PTS standards (coordinated flight, maintaining the pylon).