Quote:A) Checkrides suck. Skip 'em.
probably the best suggestion.......I second that idea!
but.......if you're serious about it:
-most light aircraft will demonstrate positive dynamic stability about the lateral axis (pitch). What this means is that when it starts to descend, it will gain airspeed, the wing will then create more lift, and finally the aircraft will begin to climb again. The same goes with an un-commanded climb, with the values in reverse.
-What this means to the layman is that an aircraft which demonstrates positive longitudinal stability will maintain target altitude if it's trimmed properly. It
will however require small control corrections due to dynamic factors.
I would practice just maintaining altitude, work on the other axes after that and then finally try and pull them all together with a smooth scan.
After you've practiced just the straight and level(maintaining alt. and hdg. ), go back and try the ride (although I can't guarantee success, as Scottler pointed out).
If you don't have this setup already, make sure you assign pitch trim functions to a set of buttons on the joystick. Trying to trim from the keyboard can be aggravating at best!
Once you've stabilized, "hands-free" at your target altitude, wait for the airplane to deviate from its pitch attitude and then a small nudge on the joystick should be all that is necessary to return to your altitude. If the airplane is trimmed properly, constant pressure, held until the altitude has been regained, will be excessive and actually aggravate the problem.
Good Luck......
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