How to Maintain a Straight and Level Flight When Flying a Plane

One of the fundamental operations that you have to undertake as a pilot is to keep your airplane straight and level at all times, unless you have a specific reason for changing direction or altitude. It takes constant attention to the plane and its instruments to keep flying the way you want to go.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Make sure that the trim is set on your vertical stabilizer. Turn the trim tab up or down as needed once you get to the altitude at which you want to fly. Watch your altitude indicator to get to the right altitude.
2. Watch the horizon carefully. One of the easiest ways to maintain level flight is to gauge yourself according to the earth's horizon. Usually, especially in the smaller Cessnas, the top of the nose is relatively straight and can easily be put parallel to the horizon.
3. Monitor all turn-and-slip indicator. This acts similar to a level device in construction, the kind that show a little bubble in the center between two markings when a surface is level. This indicator tells you when you are flying straight, or, if the bubble or indicator is outside the markings, tells you that your tail is slipping one way or the other too far from the axis of the plane.
4. Use the rudder pedals as necessary to keep the tail of the plane in alignment. This is necessary when turning, as can be expected, but you can't let your guard down when flying long distances on a straight and level course. Even minor deviations in pressure can affect the direction of the plane. This can take you far off course over a period of time.

Tips & Warnings

• The information in this article should in no way be taken as definitive instruction. This is for guidance only. Practice this and other flight techniques under the constant supervision and guidance of a qualified flight instructor.