Current Requirements for Commercial Aviation Pilots to Practice Stall Recovery in Simulators in the U.S.

The growing emphasis on safety in commercial aviation has led to significant changes in the training procedures for stall recovery. This article will explore the current requirements for such training, focusing on the U.S. context and the role of simulator training in enhancing pilots' skills.

Introduction to Stall Recovery Training

Stall recovery training is a critical component of the training syllabus for commercial aviation pilots in the United States. This training is conducted during initial qualification as well as recurrent training sessions, serving as an essential part of overall pilot training. It complements other maneuvers and unusual attitude recovery training.

Types of Stall Recoveries

In the U.S., pilots are required to master three specific types of stall recoveries:

Clean Configuration: This involves recovery in standard configuration with the flaps and gear retracted. Approach Configuration: Here, the flaps and gear are partially deployed to simulate landing approaches. Gear Up and Full Dirty Configuration: The aircraft is in a fully loaded state with flaps and gear extended.

Each of these configurations is practiced by hand and initiated at the stick shaker, an important safety mechanism that alerts pilots to an impending stall. The stick shaker is an electric motor that vibrates the yokes of the aircraft, signaling that an action to recover from a stall must be taken.

Recent Changes in Stall Recovery Training

A significant recent change in stall recovery training involves altitude loss. Traditionally, airlines trained pilots to recover from a stall without significant altitude loss. However, this approach was revised following several stall-related mishaps. The current guidance from airlines now encourages a balance between altitude loss and airspeed gain to ensure a faster and more effective recovery.

This change reflects a more pragmatic and safety-oriented approach, wherein pilots are taught to trade altitude for increased airspeed, which can be more effective in recovering from a stall. This method aligns with the approach used by the Navy, which has long emphasized the importance of regaining airspeed to stabilize the aircraft.

FAA Standards and Requirements

In the U.S., the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) sets the standards for all aspects of pilot training, including stall recovery. Pilots must adhere to these standards, which include specific recovery procedures that are different for each aircraft model. The process typically involves the following steps:

Adding power to increase the aircraft's speed. Leveling the wings to ensure a stable flight path. Raising the gear and flaps to increase drag and slow the descent. Flying the aircraft out of the stall and returning to a stable, controlled flight state.

During these procedures, pilots are also required to monitor the air data computers (ADCs) that activate the stick shaker. If the ADCs provide faulty information, pilots are advised to disregard the shaker and stall warning horns, prioritizing their own judgment and aircraft control.

Conclusion

The current stall recovery training requirements for commercial aviation pilots in the U.S. are designed to enhance safety standards and reduce the risks associated with stalls. By incorporating both clean and dirty configurations, and adopting a balance of altitude loss and airspeed gain, pilots are better equipped to handle any emergency situations they may face.

As the aviation industry continues to evolve, it is essential that training programs remain up-to-date and reflective of the latest safety standards. By adhering to these guidelines and continuously refining their skills, commercial aviation pilots can play a vital role in ensuring safe and efficient operations.