Don't Spin!
Big Idea
Recognizing an incipient spin and recovering immediately is one of the most important skills in aviation.
Fun Fact
Most spin accidents happen in the traffic pattern — at low altitude where there is no room to recover. That is why we practice high!
What You Will Learn
- Recognize the incipient spin (sudden wing drop + rotation start)
- React IMMEDIATELY — do not wait
- Recovery: opposite rudder, relax back pressure, add power
- Practice until the reaction is automatic
Simulator Steps
- Instructor sets up a slow, uncoordinated condition
- The airplane starts to drop one wing and rotate
- IMMEDIATELY: opposite rudder (stop the rotation)
- Push the yoke forward (break the stall)
- Add full power and climb away
What You Learned
- Incipient spin = the spin is just starting
- Opposite rudder stops the rotation
- Then break the stall and add power