Definition
A maneuver in which the airplane is flown in alternating left and right turns to form a series of S-shaped tracks over the ground. In the context of a power-off accuracy approach, S-turns are used to dissipate excess altitude during the approach so the airplane can land at the intended touchdown point.
Plain English
Flying a series of left-then-right curves so the path over the ground looks like the letter S. On a power-off approach, these curves lengthen the path and burn off extra height so the airplane arrives at the landing spot at the right altitude.
Context Anchor
Used during power-off accuracy approaches when the airplane is high and the pilot needs to lose altitude before landing.
Derivation
Named for the shape the flight path traces over the ground -- one curve to one side, then a curve to the other, drawing the letter S.
Why Pilots Care
Enables precise control of ground track and rate of descent so the airplane reaches the desired touchdown point with the correct altitude and airspeed.
Grounding Statement
The airplane is not falling faster; it is taking a longer path while it continues descending.
Intuition Check
S-turns are not random weaving or practice turns. They are deliberate, controlled turns used to adjust the airplane’s path and altitude before landing.
Example Sentence 1
Realizing the approach was high, the pilot used a few shallow S-turns to lose altitude before lining up on final.
Example Sentence 2
Adjusting the bank angle in each half of the S-turns allowed the pilot to correct for the crosswind and stay on the intended ground track.