Hand fly refers to the act of manually piloting an aircraft by controlling its flight controls directly, without the use of any automatic or computer-assisted systems. It involves the pilot physically manipulating the aircraft's control surfaces, such as the yoke, joystick, or rudder pedals, to guide its movement through the air.
Hand flying is typically employed in situations where the pilot needs to have precise control over the aircraft's movements, such as during takeoff and landing, in adverse weather conditions, or in emergencies when automated systems may become unreliable or inaccessible. It allows the pilot to make immediate adjustments to the aircraft's pitch, roll, and yaw, enabling precise navigation and maneuvering.
While modern aircraft are equipped with advanced autopilot systems that can maintain stability and navigate the aircraft automatically, hand flying remains an essential skill for pilots. It helps them to maintain proficiency and situational awareness, as well as fostering a deeper connection and understanding with the aircraft.
Hand flying requires a high level of attention, coordination, and skill from the pilot, as they must constantly monitor and react to the changing flight conditions. It involves a combination of sensory inputs, such as visual observation, instrument reading, and physical sensations, to assess the aircraft's performance and ensure safe and controlled flight.
In summary, hand flying refers to the manual control of an aircraft using direct physical manipulation of its flight controls, providing pilots with immediate and precise control over the aircraft's movements.
