12.66 Turning Flight

12.66.2 Define centripetal force.

Centripetal force is the inward force that acts on an object moving in a circular path, directed towards the centre of the turn.

In an aircraft, centripetal force is provided by the horizontal component of lift when the aircraft is banked. This force continually changes the direction of the aircraft, allowing it to follow a curved flight path.

The magnitude of centripetal force depends on:

• Aircraft mass
• Speed (velocity)
• Radius of the turn

Summary:
Centripetal force is the force directed toward the centre of a turn, enabling the aircraft to maintain circular motion.

12.66.4 Explain the components of lift which provide the:

(a) turning force;

When an aircraft is banked, the total lift vector is tilted and can be resolved into two components:

• Vertical component of lift → acts upward and opposes weight
• Horizontal component of lift → acts toward the centre of the turn

The horizontal component of lift provides the turning force (centripetal force). It is this force that causes the aircraft to change direction and follow a curved flight path.