What is the bank angle used during steep turns?

The bank angle used during steep turns is typically 45 degrees. This angle allows pilots to maintain a balance between the required lift and the increase in load factor during the turn, ensuring that the aircraft remains properly coordinated and that the turn remains effective without an excessive increase in stall speed.

When performing a steep turn, the pilot must compensate for the increased load factor, which can be up to two times the normal load at a 45-degree bank. This increased load requires the pilot to apply more back pressure on the yoke or stick to maintain altitude. Therefore, 45 degrees is the standard bank angle for a steep turn, as it provides an effective compromise between performance and safety, allowing pilots to sharpen their skills in aircraft handling and coordination.

In the context of the other choices, a bank angle of 30 degrees is commonly used for normal turns, which would not provide the necessary steepness for developing proficiency in this maneuver. A bank angle of 60 degrees would add excessive load and increase the risk of losing control or stalling, while 40 degrees, although steeper than normal, still does not fully meet the criteria for what constitutes a steep turn as outlined in training protocols. Thus, the use of a 45-degree bank angle is