PPL Checkride Guide
← Area V. Performance Maneuvers and Ground Reference Maneuvers

Task V.A

Steep Turns

To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with steep turns.

References: FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

Knowledge7 elements

The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

  • PA.V.A.K1How to conduct a proper steep turn.
  • PA.V.A.K2Aerodynamics associated with steep turns, including:
  • PA.V.A.K2aa. Maintaining coordinated flight
  • PA.V.A.K2bb. Overbanking tendencies
  • PA.V.A.K2cc. Maneuvering speed, including the impact of weight changes
  • PA.V.A.K2dd. Load factor and accelerated stalls
  • PA.V.A.K2ee. Rate and radius of turn
Risk Management5 elements

The applicant is able to identify, assess, and mitigate risk associated with:

  • PA.V.A.R1Division of attention between aircraft control and orientation.
  • PA.V.A.R2Collision hazards.
  • PA.V.A.R3Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).
  • PA.V.A.R4Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
  • PA.V.A.R5Uncoordinated flight.
Skills5 elements

The applicant exhibits the skill to:

  • PA.V.A.S1Clear the area.
  • PA.V.A.S2Establish the manufacturer's recommended airspeed; or if one is not available, an airspeed not to exceed the maneuvering speed (VA).
  • PA.V.A.S3Roll into a coordinated 360° steep turn with approximately a 45° bank.
  • PA.V.A.S4Perform the Task in the opposite direction, as specified by evaluator.
  • PA.V.A.S5Maintain the entry altitude ±100 feet, airspeed ±10 knots, bank ±5°, and roll out on the entry heading ±10°.

Overview

Study notes for Steep Turns are coming soon. The official ACS elements for this task are listed above — use them as your checklist while the full study guide is being written.

Key Knowledge

Content coming soon.

Common DPE Questions

Content coming soon.

References

FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM