What is used to control the rate of descent during the approach turn?

What is used to control the rate of descent during the approach turn?

• A. Rudder input
• B. Flap position
• C. Nose attitude
• D. Power

Answer: (D)

The rate of descent during the approach turn is primarily controlled by the management of power. When flying an aircraft, especially during an approach phase, power directly influences the aircraft's altitude and rate of descent. By increasing engine power, the pilot can counteract the descent rate and maintain altitude, while decreasing power will result in a higher descent rate, making it crucial for managing the approach and ensuring a stable descent profile. Other factors, such as flap position, influence overall aerodynamic performance and can aid in slow flight characteristics but do not directly control the descent rate. Nose attitude affects the flight path angle but is more of a consequence of power management rather than a primary tool for controlling descent rate directly. Rudder input helps maintain coordinated flight and can play a role in handling during the turn but does not have a direct effect on the rate of descent. Hence, the management of power is crucial for controlling descent during the approach turn, making it the correct response.

The rate of descent during the approach turn is primarily controlled by the management of power. When flying an aircraft, especially during an approach phase, power directly influences the aircraft's altitude and rate of descent. By increasing engine power, the pilot can counteract the descent rate and maintain altitude, while decreasing power will result in a higher descent rate, making it crucial for managing the approach and ensuring a stable descent profile.

Other factors, such as flap position, influence overall aerodynamic performance and can aid in slow flight characteristics but do not directly control the descent rate. Nose attitude affects the flight path angle but is more of a consequence of power management rather than a primary tool for controlling descent rate directly. Rudder input helps maintain coordinated flight and can play a role in handling during the turn but does not have a direct effect on the rate of descent. Hence, the management of power is crucial for controlling descent during the approach turn, making it the correct response.