User Guide

Flight Simulator
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Microsoft
As you’ll learn in Tutorial 8, pilots typically fly a rectangular traffic pattern in preparation to land at an
airport. In your homework assignment on traffic patterns you observed the airplane turn from base to
final. To give yourself enough time to trim and establish the proper airspeed for the approach, try to
make your final approach at least 1 to 2 miles in length (preferably 2 miles). Short finals make it very
difficult to properly prepare for the landing.
Yes, landings are exciting. And your success at them is based on airspeed control. Without the wing
leveler active, you must have the airplane trimmed for the proper airspeed. If not, it’s likely
distractions will result in your airspeed needle swooshing all over like a saber at a Zorro convention.
The principles presented here apply to all airplanes, both big and small. Make it a point to remember
the very first demonstration of this tutorial. Airplanes will almost land themselves if you maintain the
proper airspeed and keep the wings level. The rest of the skill is polish that comes with practice.
Doing little seems to mean a lot where landings are concerned.
You’re now ready for Private Lesson 2: Landing. On the Flights menu, click Lessons. Go for it!
Next, we’re ready to tackle takeoffs and traffic patterns. This will complete our basic visual flying
lessons, and you’ll be free to wander the skies alone in search of new adventures.