Skid

Definition of Skid in Aviation

Skid is an aviation term that refers to a situation where an aircraft experiences sliding and outward pivoting movement while making a shallow turn. This movement can be caused by a lack of proper coordination between the airplane’s ailerons and rudder, resulting in a lateral imbalance.

When an aircraft is in a skid, the pilot can feel a sense of being pushed outwards from their seat. This is because the aircraft is sliding sideways, and the centrifugal force is pushing the pilot away from the turn. Skidding can also be dangerous since it can put unnecessary strain on the airplane’s structure and increase the risk of losing control.

To prevent skidding, pilots must coordinate their aileron and rudder movements and maintain a balanced turn. They can do this by using the rudder to maintain directional control and the ailerons to control the roll. By doing so, the aircraft will remain stable and maintain a constant speed throughout the turn.

In summary, skid is an undesirable flight state that can occur when an airplane experiences sliding and outward pivoting movement while making a shallow turn. Pilots must coordinate their control inputs to prevent skidding and maintain directional stability.