SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/pilot-steep-turn-entry-controls

As bank increases during entry to a level steep turn, what control changes are normally needed?

Add elevator back pressure and power.

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  1. Reduce power and push forward
  2. Add back pressure and power ✔
  3. Hold full rudder and idle power

Why: Banking reduces the vertical component of lift. Smooth back pressure increases angle of attack to hold altitude, while added power offsets the extra drag and maintains airspeed.

Huh, didn't know that: The AFH generally introduces these changes before reaching 30 degrees of bank.

The dad joke
The steep turn asked for extra power because curves take effort.
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References

Answer: Add back pressure and power. Banking reduces the vertical component of lift. Smooth back pressure increases angle of attack to hold altitude, while added power offsets the extra drag and maintains airspeed.

  1. FAA Airplane Flying Handbook, Chapter 10 www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/airplane_handbook/11_afh_ch10.pdf
    elevator back pressure should be smoothly applied to increase the AOA and power should be added
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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