SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/pilot-emergency-descent-bank

What bank angle does the FAA describe when starting an emergency descent?

About 30 to 45 degrees.

Start playing free

  1. 5 to 10 degrees
  2. 30 to 45 degrees ✔
  3. 70 to 80 degrees

Why: A descending turn helps the pilot look below for traffic and landing options. The FAA describes about 30 to 45 degrees to maintain positive load factor.

Huh, didn't know that: A radio call announcing the descent may help alert nearby aircraft.

The dad joke
The airplane banked during the descent because even urgency needs a good angle.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: 30 to 45 degrees. A descending turn helps the pilot look below for traffic and landing options. The FAA describes about 30 to 45 degrees to maintain positive load factor.

  1. Airplane Flying Handbook Chapter 18 www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/airplane_handbook/19_afh_ch18.pdf
    When initiating the descent, a bank of approximately 30 to 45° should be established to maintain positive load factors (G forces) on the airplane.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Flying & DronesWhat does a turn coordinator not show precisely?Flying & DronesWhich event can demand an immediate emergency descent?Flying & DronesWhich speed limits still apply during an emergency descent?

That's stuff everyone should know.