What should the PCL be set to at altitudes below 10,000 feet during tail chase?

What should the PCL be set to at altitudes below 10,000 feet during tail chase?

• A. 100%
• B. 90%
• C. 85%
• D. 75%

Answer: (B)

In tail chase scenarios, the PCL (Power Control Lever) setting is crucial for maintaining optimal performance of the aircraft. At altitudes below 10,000 feet, setting the PCL to 90% is recommended because it allows for a balance between maintaining sufficient power for effective maneuvers while managing engine performance and efficiency. This level of power is adequate to provide the necessary thrust to perform maneuvers without risking an over-rev or excessive fuel consumption. This recommendation is based on the operational parameters that ensure the aircraft can respond effectively without pushing the engine beyond its limits, which could be counterproductive in a tail chase formation exercise. Each of the other options either provides too much power, which could lead to unnecessary strain on the engine, or too little power, which might not support effective flight performance in a chase scenario. Balancing power and agility is key, and setting the PCL at 90% achieves that balance effectively.

In tail chase scenarios, the PCL (Power Control Lever) setting is crucial for maintaining optimal performance of the aircraft. At altitudes below 10,000 feet, setting the PCL to 90% is recommended because it allows for a balance between maintaining sufficient power for effective maneuvers while managing engine performance and efficiency. This level of power is adequate to provide the necessary thrust to perform maneuvers without risking an over-rev or excessive fuel consumption.

This recommendation is based on the operational parameters that ensure the aircraft can respond effectively without pushing the engine beyond its limits, which could be counterproductive in a tail chase formation exercise. Each of the other options either provides too much power, which could lead to unnecessary strain on the engine, or too little power, which might not support effective flight performance in a chase scenario. Balancing power and agility is key, and setting the PCL at 90% achieves that balance effectively.