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Old 11-01-2010 | 05:50 PM
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Gray Beard
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From: Hemderson, NV
Default RE: Slowing Down to Land


ORIGINAL: SleepyPete

Question: What's the best way to slow down a plane without flaps or ailerons, prior to landing. I've tried to ''Flare Up'' but have not yet gained enough confidence to avoid the eventual, well, you know....
Landings are controlled with the throttle and elevator as most are stating but if you haven't got the feel for the flare you should go practice a bit longer. Elevator control is a must. Some other little things that may help are the props you use. I use long props with light pitch and the prop acts like a breaking action. Once in a while I use a three bladed prop with some plane/engine combos and the breaking action of a three blade prop will slow a plane down. As LN stated, it's the drag that slows and some props just seem to add to that. A new pilot may over control the elevator and induce a stall if you slow too fast. Just start shooting some approaches or false landings a couple of mistakes high so you can get a feel for the landings. After you get it down do a lot of touch and goes during your day. It all comes to you with time and practice.