Spins

[Steveair]

if >3500 agl the aircraft (let's say a C172) should come out of the spin on its own if left alone, correct?

Two things...

1. Can you really "SPIN" a 172? I've never really been able to get anything more than a steep spiral out of it.

2. AOPA or the FAA, I don't remember who, recommended that if you get into a spin and you haven't had spin training, you should just let go.

This is 100% true. When you start doing your spin training, you'll find that neutralizing the controls will practically stop the spin. In my experience, the 172 will always come out of the spin. In the Decathlon, I find that if you let go prior to the spin entering the fully developed phase, the Deca will recover on its own. After that, you've gotta bring the controls inputs to recover.

If you want to learn more, here's some more info since I have nothing to do! (remember, if you ever quit learning, you better quit flying).

How can you recognize a spin v. steep spiral?
- Airspeed will increase in a steep spiral.

Why not bring in power?
- Increased airflow over the tail = more tail down force = flat spin.
- Thrust centerline is above CG = tail down.

Why not use ailerons?
- Spin to the right and you apply left aileron. Right aileron up, left down. Left aileron acts as a flap / produces more lift. However, that also produces more drag (induced), which tightens the spin.

4 Phases of a Spin?
- Entry, Incipient, Recovery

Types of Spins?
Upright, inverted, flat.

C172 Spin Limitations?
- Utility Category only, No people in the backseat, everything secured. (Section 2 - Limitations)

Hope that helps / have fun!

 

[soarby007]

I totally agree with Lead Sled.

Yes you can spin a 172 if you try real hard and yes it will recover on it's own, assuming you are not out of CG. Most of the single engine Cessnas will recover on their own. The best training I ever had was the aerobatic course in Chandler, Az. in the Great Lakes doing evey spin imaginable, and that was the easy part of the course.

When I was instructing I found out that students sometimes didn't conceptualize what a spin was unless demonstrated and shown what conditions will get you there. They didn't want a full blown 3 turn spin, just the incipient phase was enough. But if the guy didn't want it, I just did the ground training for what it was worth.