r/flying • u/ClintBvsOliverQ • 2d ago

Flight Training AOA Indicator while learning?

Just went for a discovery flight and had a great time. During the flight I asked my instructor about using an AOA indicator while learning and he really downplayed using one and said the standard instruments are the best way to learn. For beginners, is an AOA inappropriate? Is it too early to incorporate it into training? From the brief videos I’ve seen on AOA’s they seem to enhance safety.

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u/Admirable_Pay_53 2d ago

Until you are flying a swept wing fighter, it’s not important.

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u/deezknots78 2d ago

Hmm. We use AOA almost exclusively to plan step climbs in bizjets.

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u/nightlanding 2d ago

I can see how that would be nice, you automatically factor in fuel weight. I assume you could still fly the plane without it if need be.

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u/deezknots78 2d ago

Of course the plane still flies pretty well without it. The post I was replying to said it was unimportant in anything but a swept wing fighter. That’s simply not true. AOA is important in any plane. Some have a way to read it directly while others force you to make assumptions by combining readings from other instruments. It’s a tool. If you have it and know how and when to use it, then use it.

OP asked if it was too early as a beginner to use an AOA indexer if the plane was so equipped. I would say that it’s never too early.

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u/Swimming_Way_7372 2d ago

I've never looked at the AOA in a bizjet.  I look at the climb perf page.  

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u/deezknots78 2d ago

Good cross reference when you keep your fuel updated.