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CA.V.A.K2eFAA-S-ACS-7B · Nov 2023Knowledge

e. Rate and radius of turn

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Aerodynamics associated with steep turns, including: e. Rate and radius of turn

Bottom line

The radius of turn equals velocity squared divided by 11.26 times the tangent of the bank angle. An increase in airspeed results in an increase of the turn radius.

Key numbers

Key numbers for e. Rate and radius of turn
NumberWhat it means
1,091 x tangent of bank angle / speed in knotsROT formula
V² / (11.26 x tangent of bank angle)Radius formula
2.62°/sec at 240 knots with 30° bankROT at 240 kt
1 minute to turn 180° at 3°/secStandard rate
2,100 feet at 65 knots glide speed, standard rateRadius at 65 kt

FAA references

  1. PHAK ch. 5 (p. 5-39) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
  2. PHAK ch. 5 (p. 5-23) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
  3. AFH ch. 18 (p. 18-9) — FAA-H-8083-3C
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