Definition
A turn performed with the engine at idle (or at reduced power) while the airplane descends along a curved path. Bank angle, airspeed, and rate of descent must be coordinated so the airplane maintains a stable glide throughout the turn rather than a level or climbing flight path.
Plain English
A turn made while the airplane is gliding down with the engine pulled back, instead of turning in level flight with normal power.
Context Anchor
Used in steep spirals, emergency descent practice, and situations where a pilot needs to turn while descending without relying on engine power.
Derivation
Glide comes from an old word meaning to move smoothly. In aviation, it points to the airplane continuing through the air while descending, rather than being pulled along mainly by engine power.
Why Pilots Care
Enables controlled heading changes and altitude loss while preserving airspeed and coordination, essential for positioning during forced landings or spiral training.
Grounding Statement
Picture the engine at idle while the airplane circles downward in a controlled path toward a chosen area.
Intuition Check
A gliding turn is not just a turn that feels smooth. In this context, gliding means the airplane is descending with little or no engine power while it turns.
Example Sentence 1
After simulating an engine failure, the student entered a gliding turn toward the chosen field while holding best glide speed.
Example Sentence 2
After the simulated engine failure, a gentle gliding turn was used to lose altitude while staying over the practice field.