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Old 01-24-2010, 05:42 PM
  #15  
Planespotta
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Joined APC: Apr 2007
Position: Dream within a dream
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People over think landings just like they do flying. When you step back and take a look at the basics, it's really pretty simple and nothing to sweat.

The trick is to landing well is "understanding" your airplane and knowing the fundamentals of flying. Know how the controls mush when you start the flare and become familiar with controlling the mushing airplane. Landing is no more than transitioning from a constant-rate/speed descent into slow flight and maintaining altitude just above the runway, so the first thing you need to do is learn how to make a constant-rate/speed descent that is aligned with the extended runway centerline; known as a "stable approach." This has been discussed; pitch for your airspeed, use power for altitude, and trim, trim, trim, trim, and trim until you could cross your arms and the airplane would maintain a stable approach.

Then, practice some slow flight until you have it down pat. Finally, put these two skills together. Establish a smooth descent until you pass over the runway, and then get ready to transition to slow flight. To put it "Zen-like," you land best by not landing; hold the airplane off until she insists on dropping. Let us know how it goes!
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