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What happens to Fixed pitch propeller when descending?

Asked by: 2649 views Aerodynamics, Commercial Pilot, Flight Instructor, General Aviation, Private Pilot, Student Pilot

We know that when a fixed pitch propeller climbs, P-factor kicks in and descending propeller is at higher AOA that it makes the plane yaw to the left.

Then, what will happen to the plane in a descend and effects on propeller and its AOA?

When I was doing my multi engine training especially one engine inop, in a descent it yawed to right and had to kick left rudder to coordinate.

Thanks for your help and positive support!

Safe flight !

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1 Answers



  1. Robert Jankowski on Mar 30, 2016

    You’re correct that when you lower your AOA to descend, your ascending blade is creating more thrust and if there is enough power in, you will have yaw to the right and require left rudder to counter it.

    Usually though, descents are done with lower power settings than climbs and at higher airspeeds so it’s not as well noticed.

    Try it with a high speed power on descent (keeping care to keep the airspeed in a safe range for the conditions and altitude to spare).

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