During descent, what is the preferred technique for maintaining control in the TH-73A?

• A. Using cyclic control exclusively
• B. Adjusting collective while maintaining energy
• C. Shifting weight to the rear
• D. Reducing altitude quickly without control

Answer: (B)

In the TH-73A during descent, maintaining control is crucial for safe operations, and the preferred technique involves adjusting the collective while maintaining energy. This approach allows the pilot to manage the aircraft's descent rate effectively, ensuring that the wing's lift is maximized while still controlling airspeed and maintaining a stable flight path.

By adjusting the collective, the pilot can change the pitch of the rotor blades, which impacts the lift generated by the rotor system. This fine-tuning allows for a controlled descent, avoiding excessive rates of descent that could lead to an increased risk of loss of control. Furthermore, maintaining energy helps to ensure that there is adequate rotor RPM available for recovery should the situation require it.

Maintaining optimal energy levels also contributes to the overall stability of the aircraft during descent, as it prevents the blades from stalling and ensures that the pilot has responsive control authority throughout the maneuver. This technique aligns with fundamental helicopter flight principles, emphasizing the need for coordinated inputs and energy management to achieve safe and effective flight operations.