Eights on Pylons

Whiteboard

Objective Make turns around two points, maintaining a constant reference line from the point to the pylon.	Eights on Pylons	Motivation Develops a sense of coordination and airspeed to maintain line-of-sight.
Elements Description Pylon position Pivotal altitude Wind and groundspeed Altitude correction Pylon ahead: Too high, descend and accelerate Pylon behind: Too low, climb and deccelerate Between pylons: Apply wind correction		Procedure Pre-maneuver checklist Fly downwind, 90-100 knots for 700-900' AGL Identify 1st pylon Enter 4° to wind Pass pylon, Plop wing onto it Keep pylon in position, pitch for pivotal altitude After 270°, level flight for 3-5 seconds Select 2nd pylon Plop wing onto it Recover at entry heading
Risk Management Fixation Terrain/Obstacles/CFIT Emergency landing	Common Errors Slipping/Skidding turns to hold pylon in position Excessive gain/loss of altitude Poor pylons: Too big or too tall Not enter on downwind Not accounting for wind drift between pylons Turning into pylons too early	Completion Standards Suitable pylon selection 30-40° bank at steepest point Maintain line-of-sight with pylon, parallel to wing Maintain coordination

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