Ground Reference Maneuvers

Purpose of ground reference maneuvers.

Effects of wind on ground track and relation to a ground reference.

Effects of bank angle and groundspeed on rate and radius of turn.

Relationship of rectangular course to airport traffic pattern.

Division of attention between aircraft control and orientation.

Collision hazards.

Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

Uncoordinated flight.

Clear the area.

Select a suitable ground reference area, line, or point as appropriate.

Plan the maneuver:

a. Rectangular course: enter a left or right pattern, 600 to 1,000 feet above ground level (AGL) at an appropriate distance from the selected reference area, 45° to the downwind leg

b. S-turns: enter perpendicular to the selected reference line, 600 to 1,000 feet AGL at an appropriate distance from the selected reference area

c. Turns around a point: enter at an appropriate distance from the reference point, 600 to 1,000 feet AGL at an appropriate distance from the selected reference area

Apply adequate wind-drift correction during straight and turning flight to maintain a constant ground track around a rectangular reference area, or to maintain a constant radius turn on each side of a selected reference line or point.

If performing S-Turns, reverse the turn directly over the selected reference line; if performing turns around a point, complete turns in either direction, as specified by the evaluator.

Divide attention between aircraft control, traffic avoidance and the ground track while maintaining coordinated flight.

Maintain altitude ±100 feet; maintain airspeed ±10 knots.