Page 27 - Volume 16 Number 12

don’t want to see it for the first time when you’re descending because of a fire, an onboard medical emergency or a pressurization leak.Attain and maintain the maxi- mum indicated airspeed for the flap and gear configuration: Flap and gear speeds are the limiting factors. In approach-flap airplanes the vertical speed indicator will be pegged on 4,000 fpm at Emergency Descent speed.Although most manufacturers’ checklists don’t suggest it, the FAA recommends rolling the airplane into a 30°-45° bank as you enter the Emergency Descent. Why? If you simply push the yoke forward the airplane will resist entering the descent, because it’s trimmed for level flight speed. If you’re overly aggressive you may overstress the airplane with negative Gs, especially with flaps extended (the airplane is not stressed for any negative Gs with any amount of flap extended). Roll the wing long enough to establish emergency descent speed, and the vertical component of lift is reduced. The nose will fall through the horizon and you’ll attain the attitude, speed and rate of descent you need more quickly. And the Emergency Descent is all about getting down quickly.Have you practiced the Emergency Descent in your aircraft? If not, request this event next time you’re in the simulator, or when you fly with a type-knowledgeable instructor. He/she can give you tips, keep you within airframe limitations (you don’t want your practice to create a real problem), manage your engine temperatures in pi•ston airplanes, and keep you safe in the Emergency Descent procedure. T&TMAINTENANCE• All scheduled and non-scheduled maintenance by our friendly, experienced technicians • Qualified to work on Citation, KingAir, Twin Commander, and PilatusThomas P. Turner is an ATP/ CFII/MEI, holds a Masters Degree in Aviation Safety, and was the 2010 National FAA Safety Team Represen- tative of the Year. Subscribe to Tom’s free FLYING LES- SONS Weekly e-newsletter at www.mastery-flight-training.com.Avionics• Legacy: partial and full glass cockpit completions• Garmin GTN650 and GTN750 installations• XM Weather, traffic and mode S upgradesinfo@northeastair.comwww.northeastair.com Portland Jetport (KPWM) MaineCRS #FTUR030EDECEMBER 2012TWIN & TURBINE • 25