AerodynamicsStalls and Spins
Spiral Dive
A spiral dive is a steep, descending turn characterised by an excessively high bank angle, rapidly increasing airspeed, and a rapidly increasing rate of descent. Unlike a spin, the wings are not stalled during a spiral dive.
Key Points
- •Airspeed increases rapidly, posing an immediate risk of structural damage or exceeding <strong>V<sub>NE</sub></strong>.
- •The wings remain unstalled, unlike in an aerodynamic spin.
- •Recovery involves closing the throttle, levelling the wings, and gently easing out of the dive.
Exam Relevance
Distinguishing between a spin and a spiral dive, and knowing the correct recovery technique for each, is a critical safety and exam topic.
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