A-02-001
NTSB Safety Recommendation — Aviation
Recommendation text
TO THE FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION: Require the manufacturers and operators of transport-category airplanes to establish and implement pilot training programs that: (1) explain the structural certification requirements for the rudder and vertical stabilizer on transport-category airplanes; (2) explain that a full or nearly full rudder deflection in one direction followed by a full or nearly full rudder deflection in the opposite direction, or certain combinations of sideslip angle and opposite rudder deflection can result in potentially dangerous loads on the vertical stabilizer, even at speeds below the design maneuvering speed; and (3) explain that, on some aircraft, as speed increases, the maximum available rudder deflection can be obtained with comparatively light pedal forces and small pedal deflections. The FAA should also require revisions to airplane and pilot operating manuals that reflect and reinforce this information. In addition, the FAA should ensure that this training does not compromise the substance or effectiveness of existing training regarding proper rudder use, such as during engine failure shortly after takeoff or during strong or gusty crosswind takeoffs or landings.
In plain language (FlightFinder summary)
The FAA is asked to require manufacturers and operators of transport-category airplanes to implement pilot training that covers structural certification of the rudder and vertical stabilizer, explains that full opposite rudder deflections or certain sideslip combinations can cause dangerous loads even below maneuvering speed, and notes that on some aircraft, maximum rudder deflection may be achieved with light pedal forces. The FAA must also require corresponding updates to airplane and pilot operating manuals, while ensuring this new training does not undermine existing training on proper rudder use, such as during engine failure or crosswind operations.
This plain-language summary is written by FlightFinder to explain the recommendation above. It is not the official wording — the verbatim NTSB text is quoted above.
Details
| Status | Closed - Acceptable Action |
|---|---|
| Mode | Aviation |
| Closed | Dec 26, 2013 |
| NTSB number | DCA02MA001 |
| Addressees | FAA |
External links
NTSB safety recommendations are advisory; addressees are not legally required to adopt them. Source: NTSB CAROL (public domain).