During the approach turn, how is airspeed controlled?

During the approach turn, controlling airspeed is primarily accomplished through managing the nose attitude. This involves adjusting the aircraft's pitch attitude to influence the airspeed. By raising or lowering the nose, the pilot can either increase or decrease the angle of attack, which subsequently affects the lift being generated and, by extension, the airspeed.

For example, when you pitch up, the angle of attack increases, which can lead to a reduction in airspeed if power is not increased correspondingly. Conversely, lowering the nose typically decreases the angle of attack, allowing for an increase in airspeed. Properly managing the nose attitude thus allows the pilot to stabilize the airspeed during the critical phases of the approach, ensuring safe maneuverability and control.

In this context, while other factors such as power management and altitude can influence airspeed, it is the adjustment of the nose attitude that is the direct method to regulate airspeed during the approach turn. This understanding is crucial for maintaining the appropriate speed for the maneuver and avoiding any potential stalls or insufficient airspeed situations.