Pitch
The simulation to the left shows how pitch is presented on the
instrument called the attitude indicator (AI.) The simulation includes
a local horizon line and you can see that when the longitudinal
axis is parallel to (or aligned with) the local horizon we say that
pitch is zero. When the longitudinal axis is inclined so that the
nose is above the horizon pitch is positive, and when below the
horizon pitch is negative.
A common mistake is to confuse pitch with climb. While it is true
that the nose is always up in a climb it is also quite possible
to fly level with the nose up. The simulation shows this.
You can speed up and slow down by using the Z and Q keys (you may
have to click on the simulation to wake it up.) You can also pitch
the nose up and down using the up and down arrow keys.
Try slowing down in level flight (Z key.) Notice that the nose
rises as the airplane slows down. The blue vector is the TAS and
by definition TAS is in the direction of flight. So, if you are
flying level then TAS must be parallel to the horizon.
Is it possible to descend with a nose up pitch attitude? Yes. Try
slowing to 60 kIAS then descending 200fpm.
Move on only when you are sure you understand the difference between
pitch and climb. |
