Definition
A steep turn maneuver in which the airplane is rolled into a constant bank and flown through two complete circles (a total of 720 degrees of heading change) before rolling out on the original heading. Used as a training maneuver to develop coordination, division of attention, and smooth control of bank, pitch, and power at higher load factors.
Plain English
Two full circles flown in a steep bank, ending up pointing the same way you started.
Context Anchor
Seen in steep-turn practice, where a student pilot is asked to keep the airplane controlled through more than one full circle.
Derivation
A circle has 360 degrees. The degree symbol, °, marks a measured angle. Since 720 is twice 360, 720° means two complete circles or two full turns.
Why Pilots Care
Builds the ability to sustain precise control through extended turns without altitude or airspeed deviation.
Intuition Check
720° does not mean a very steep bank angle. Here it means the total amount of turning: two full circles.
Example Sentence 1
The commercial applicant entered the 720° turn at maneuvering speed, established a 50° bank, and held altitude within 100 feet through both circles.
Example Sentence 2
During the lesson the pilot completed 720° turns while adjusting power to keep airspeed steady.