Straight-and-Level Flight

Flying straight and level may look simple, but it's actually one of the more difficult flight maneuvers to master. Because pilots want to control airplanes, they overdo it most of the time and interfere with the airplane's basic stability. Like a balancing act, straight-and-level flight requires that you make smooth, small corrections to keep the airplane from wobbling all over the sky.

Divide and Conquer

It's best to break down the task of establishing and maintaining straight-and-level flight into two parts:

1. Holding a constant altitude and airspeed. This part requires that the pairs of opposing forces—lift and weight, thrust and drag—remain balanced.
2. Holding a constant heading. This part requires you to monitor the heading indicator and turn coordinator to hold the wings level, maintain coordinated flight, and correct minor deviations in heading.

Pitch + Power = Performance

Fortunately, there's a simple rule that can help you handle the first task.The basic equation Pitch + Power = Performance is a pilot's golden rule. It means simply that if you establish a specific pitch attitude and set power at a constant level, the airplane will fly at a particular airspeed and either maintain level flight or climb or descend at a constant rate.

For example, to set up a typical cruise configuration at 3,000 ft (915 m) in the Cessna, set the throttle to deliver about 2,300 RPM. To maintain level flight, adjust the pitch attitude so that the miniature airplane on the attitude indicator is level with the horizon. The top of the instrument panel is below the real horizon when you look out the front window.

If you keep the nose from rising or falling and leave the power set at 2,300 RPM, the Cessna will maintain altitude and cruise at about 120 knots indicated airspeed.

If the airplane starts to gain or lose altitude, make small, smooth corrections to the pitch attitude and adjust the elevator trim so eventually the airplane flies "hands off."

Keeping It Straight

Maintaining a constant heading is a little easier than holding altitude, but you still need to keep a close eye on the flight instruments. Check the heading indicator frequently to make sure the nose stays pointed in the right direction. Cross-check the turn coordinator. If the wings on the miniature airplane are level, the airplane isn't turning. If the wings aren't level, you need to apply smooth, slight pressure on the ailerons and rudder to level the wings and maintain coordinated flight.