Pegasus Aviation Service, LLC

Lazy Eights BACK to Index

DescriptionTwo coordinated 180º turns are completed in opposite directions. Each turn includes a climb and a descent in a symmetrical pattern; the nose of the airplane scribing a horizontal eight on the horizon. ObjectiveTo develop the student’s feel for varying control forces from high through low airspeeds, and ability to accurately maneuver the airplane while demonstrating good planning and orientation. Procedure• Complete pre-maneuver checklist. Clear the area. Make radio calls as appropriate. Maintain 2300 RPM and approximately 90 KIAS.• Select outside visual references. Choose a 90° reference point off one wingtip.• Begin maneuver. Without adjusting power, begin a gradual climbing turn towards the reference point.• 45° point. Once the nose of the aircraft is halfway to the reference point, the aircraft should be at 15° pitch and 15° of bank. Continue gradual bank and begin to relax back pressure allowing the nose to gradually fall to the horizon.• 90° point. Once the nose of the aircraft is on the reference point, the aircraft should be at 0° pitch, 30° bank, minimum airspeed and maximum altitude.• 135° point. Continue to relax back pressure and begin to rollout bank so when the nose of the aircraft is 135° from the starting heading, it is at 15° pitch down, and 15° bank. Begin to level the pitch attitude and bank.• 180° point. The opposite wing should rollout on the reference point in level flight, at the same airspeed and altitude as on entry.• Repeat in opposite direction. Complete maneuver on same heading and at same entry altitude. ACS Standards• Clear the area.• Select an altitude that will allow the maneuver to be performed no lower than 1,500 feet AGL.• Establish the recommended entry configuration, power, and airspeed.• Maintain coordinated flight throughout the maneuver.• Complete the maneuver in accordance with the following:o Approximately 30° bank at the steepest pointo Constant change of pitch and roll rate and airspeedo Altitude at 180°point, ±100 feet from entry altitudeo Airspeed at the 180° point, ±10 knots from entry airspeedo Heading at the 180° point, ±10°• Continue the maneuver through the number of symmetrical loops specified, then resume straight-and-level flight.