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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/pilot-spin-incipient-phase

Which spin phase lasts from the stall and start of rotation until the spin is fully developed?

The incipient phase, often two to four turns.

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  1. The entry phase
  2. The incipient phase ✔
  3. The recovery phase

Why: A spin has four phases: entry, incipient, developed and recovery. In the incipient phase, forces are not yet balanced. Recovery should begin before 360 degrees of rotation.

Huh, didn't know that: In a spin, the FAA says to use the turn indicator for spin direction, not the slip-skid ball.

The dad joke
Spins have four phases. My teenager has five: sleep, eat, phone, eat, sleep.
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References

Answer: The incipient phase. A spin has four phases: entry, incipient, developed and recovery. In the incipient phase, forces are not yet balanced. Recovery should begin before 360 degrees of rotation.

  1. Airplane Flying Handbook FAA-H-8083-3C, Chapter 5 Maintaining Aircraft Control www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/airplane_handbook/06_afh_ch5.pdf
    The incipient phase occurs from the time the airplane stalls and starts rotating until the spin has fully developed.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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