Helicopter pilot training: Things to bear in mind when shooting an approach

Mischa Gelb, better known to RUclips viewers as Pilot Yellow, is the new writer of Vertical Magazine's training column. In this video accompanying his first column, he talks about the aerodynamic principles of vortex ring state, settling with power, overpitching, and loss of tail rotor effectiveness.

[@ganthrithor]

1. Know the winds
2. Know the winds
3. Know the winds
4. Know your aircraft
You're 100% correct: maintaining situational awareness, anticipating your performance (or lack thereof) and being completely ready to do that go-around (whatever that looks like in your situation) is the only way to survive long-term. If you're surprised and are "reacting" to an emergency as it unfolds, you're already way behind. Listen to uncle Mischa, and if you're the kind of person who struggles to think ahead of the aircraft or has difficulty interpreting what the aircraft is up to as it moves through the air, don't put yourself in these situations where you're requiring a large percentage of the aircraft's performance in order to do what you're trying to do. Go safer places, keep the helicopter light, and keep flying with an experienced instructor until you get the hang of things. If that time is never, take a safety pilot. Things go wrong very quickly when you get behind.

[@aroundontonagonwitholdeswi6377]

Very well done! Excellent. As a very experienced fixed wing pilot now transitioning to helicopters, this is exactly the type of training that I need. Understanding fully what causes these phenomena and knowing how to avoid them in the first place is crucial. Safe helicopter flying always involves thinking not only in the moment, but also to what lies ahead. Situational awareness is the key. Thank you.

[@chefmikedeberry3973]

YOU ARE AMAZING!! WHEN I LEARN TO FLY - I WILL COME DIRECTLY TO YOU. I LOVE IT WHEN A PERSON'S PASSION IS DISPLAYED IN THEIR WORK.

[@teapee6363]

Four words : From The Ground Up. I am grateful for all you do, your a scholar and a gentlemen. I thank you for your work, time, experience and knowledge.

[@RCConsultingInc]

Yep... Mischa... cranks out another great video. Into the Wind...Shallow as possible... Slow down...power back in early... Exit option for the approach. Check! - R44 Driver

[@franksachsenhausen146]

I am glad to do my training with Mischa and BC Helicopters . Great Video . Thank you Pilot Yellow

[@tomwolf9432]

Thanks Mischa for this highly educational video on the Big 4! I have been taking notes on flying helicopters for quite some years now, just added some more after watching this clip!😊 Safe flying always!

[@heli.thatSTEVE]

Simply awesome.

[@gerardomontano3898]

Awesome value!!

[@nickwayland6573]

Love these training videos. Keep em coming.

[@seanskelly5447]

Awesome!