AFH Chapter 4-25 Spin Procedures: Entry-Incipient-Developed-Recovery

Entry Phase

In the entry phase, the pilot intentionally or accidentally provides the necessary elements for the spin.

 

The entry procedure for demonstrating a spin is similar to a power-off stall.

 

During the entry, the pilot should slowly reduce power to idle, while simultaneously raising the nose to a pitch attitude that ensures a stall.

 

As the airplane approaches a stall, smoothly apply full rudder in the direction of the desired spin rotation while applying full back (up) elevator to the limit of travel.

 

Always maintain the ailerons in the neutral position during the spin procedure unless AFM/POH specifies otherwise.

 

Incipient Phase

The incipient phase occurs from the time the airplane stalls and starts rotating until the spin has fully developed.

 

This phase may take two to four turns for most airplanes.

 

In this phase, the aerodynamic and inertial forces have not achieved a balance.

 

As the incipient phase develops, the indicated airspeed will generally stabilize at a low and constant airspeed and the symbolic airplane of the turn indicator should indicate the direction of the spin.

 

The slip/skid ball is unreliable when spinning.

 

The pilot should initiate incipient spin recovery procedures prior to completing 360° of rotation.

 

The pilot should apply full rudder opposite the direction of rotation.

 

The turn indicator shows a deflection in the direction of rotation if disoriented.

 

Incipient spins that are not allowed to develop into a steady-state spin are the most commonly used maneuver in initial spin training and recovery techniques.

 

Developed Phase

The developed phase occurs when the airplane’s angular rotation rate, airspeed, and vertical speed are stabilized in a flightpath that is nearly vertical.

 

In the developed phase, aerodynamic forces and inertial forces are in balance, and the airplane’s attitude, angles, and self-sustaining motions about the vertical axis are constant or repetitive, or nearly so.

 

The spin is in equilibrium.

 

It is important to note that some training airplanes will not enter into the developed phase but could transition unexpectedly from the incipient phase into a spiral dive.

 

In a spiral dive the airplane will not be in equilibrium but instead will be accelerating and G load can rapidly increase as a result.

 

Recovery Phase

The recovery phase occurs when rotation ceases and the AOA of the wings is decreased below the critical AOA.

 

This phase may last for as little as a quarter turn or up to several turns depending upon the airplane and the type of spin.

 

To recover, the pilot applies control inputs to disrupt the spin equilibrium by stopping the rotation and unstalling the wing.

 

To accomplish spin recovery, always follow the manufacturer’s recommended procedures.

 

In the absence of the manufacturer’s recommended spin recovery procedures and techniques, use the spin recovery procedures in Figure 4-13.

 

If the flaps and/or retractable landing gear are extended prior to the spin, they should be retracted as soon as practicable after spin entry.

 

1. Reduce the Power (Throttle) to Idle

 

2. Position the Ailerons to Neutral

 

3. Apply Full Opposite Rudder against the Rotation

 

4. Apply Positive, Brisk, and Straight Forward Elevator (Forward of Neutral)

 

5. Neutralize the Rudder After Spin Rotation Stops

 

6. Apply Back Elevator Pressure to Return to Level Flight