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AI.XI.B.R8FAA-S-ACS-25 · Nov 2023Risk management

Trimming the aircraft.

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Trimming the aircraft.

Bottom line

Trimming refers to relieving any control pressures that need to be applied by the pilot to the control surfaces to maintain a desired flight attitude. If the airspeed is allowed to change, the trim is not adjusted properly and the altitude varies until the airspeed for which the aircraft is trimmed is achieved. If the airplane remains trimmed at the pre-maneuver cruising speed, strong aft (back) control pressure is needed on the elevator, which will make precise control difficult.

FAA references

  1. IFH ch. 7 (p. 7-43) — FAA-H-8083-15B
  2. AFH ch. 5, Performing the Slow Flight Maneuver (p. 5-11) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  3. AIH ch. 9 (p. 9-10) — FAA-H-8083-9B
  4. RMH ch. 3 (p. 3-6) — FAA-H-8083-2A
  5. IFH ch. 7 (p. 7-45) — FAA-H-8083-15B
  6. AFH ch. 16 (p. 16-17) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  7. PHAK ch. 6 (p. 6-10) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
  8. AFH ch. 9 (p. 9-28) — FAA-H-8083-3C
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