The nine-point stall recovery scenario
- Level the wings with the rudder as you at the same time neutralize the positions of the ailerons and elevator. The rudder is the most effective control surface in a stall condition. (Even the seemingly scariest stall becomes less frightening and more manageable once the wings are level.)
- Squeeze the nose attitude slightly below the horizon. This may require back or forward pressure on the yoke depending on the attitude of the airplane and the current trim configuration. Use positive control, be the boss of the airplane’s resulting attitude.
USE THE FOUR “UPS” - POWER UP.
Add full power. - CLEAN UP.
Carburetor heat off, flaps up (normally retract half flaps if in full flap configuration; if in half-flap configuration, retract flaps all the way), and gear up. Note that the POH-recommended procedure and order is the final authority. - SPEED UP.
Bring speed up to VX. Anything more than VX results in time and altitude wasted and is contrary to your objective. Once you have reached VX or if you are already above VX, move on to step 6. - PITC UP.
Change the pitch attitude gently from slightly below the horizon to VX attitude. This attitude should be demonstrated prior to stall recoveries so the student knows what it looks like by looking outside the cockpit. - Verify positive rate of climb on the altimeter. Explain how this is the only true single instrument that shows the airplane is gaining altitude. Explain here the limitations and lag of the vertical speed indicator.
- Verify that you have cleared all obstacles. Look outside, make heading corrections as necessary.
- Lower the nose to VY attitude. Continue your climb to your desired altitude.
By Carl Dworman