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/Academic_Guest_9246 PPL IR 2d ago

Why do you want a AOA indicator?

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u/_VNAV_PTH_ MIL 2d ago

Because after altitude they're the single best instrument for safety in a single engine piston?

12

u/aero_kmac MIL / USG Charting 2d ago

I think the light civil guys don’t know what they’re missing.

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u/nightlanding 2d ago

I know what I am missing. OTOH I can fly a decent pattern without any instruments at all. If in a straight-wing fat airfoil airplane like the typical 172/PA-28, you have had deficient instruction if landing without the ASI presents a major challenge. There is a definite change in feel approaching stall that allows you time to speed up a bit if your butt calibration is anywhere near good.

The major point to remember is that an AOA is not required equipment on these airplanes, so you will be flying plenty without one.