To produce straight-and-level flight, the cross-check of the
pitch-and-bank instruments should he combined with the
power control instruments. With a constant power setting, a
normal cross-check should he satisfactory. When changing
power, the speed of the cross-check must be increased to
cover the pitch-and-bank instruments adequately. This is
necessary to counteract any deviations immediately.

Common Errors During Airspeed Changes

I. Improper use of power

2. Overcontrolling pitch attitude

3. Failure to maintain heading

4. Failure to maintain altitude

5. Improper pedal trim

Straight Climbs (Constant Airspeed and Constant Rate)

For any power setting and load condition, there is only
one airspeed that gives the most efficient rate of climb.
To determine this, consult the climb data for the type of
helicopter being flown. The technique varies according to
the airspeed on entry and whether a constant airspeed or
constant rate climb is made.

Entry
To enter a constant airspeed climb from cruise airspeed when
the climb speed is lower than cruise speed, simultaneously
increase power to the climb power setting and adjust pitch
attitude to the approximate climb attitude. The increase in
power causes the helicopter to start climbing and only very
slight back cyclic pressure is needed to complete the change
from level to climb attitude. The attitude indicator should
be used to accomplish the pitch change. If the transition
from level flight to a climb is smooth, the VSI shows an
immediate upward trend and then stops at a rate appropriate
to the stabilized airspeed and attitude. Primary and supporting
instruments for climb entry are illustrated in Figure 6-11.

When the helicopter stabilizes at a constant airspeed and
attitude, the airspeed indicator becomes primary for pitch.
The manifold pressure continues to be primary [or power and
should be monitored closely to determine if the proper climb
power setting is being maintained. Primary and supporting
instruments for a stabilized constant airspeed climb are shown
in Figure 6-12.

The technique and procedures for entering a constant rate
climb are very similar to those previously described for a
constant airspeed climb. For training purposes, a constant
rate climb is entered from climb airspeed. Use the rate
appropriate! for the particular helicopter being flown.
Normally, in helicopters with low climb rates, 500 [pin is
appropriate, in helicopters capable of high climb rates, use
a rate of 1,000 rpm.