Expert Opinion
AINsight: Spin Cycle
The FAA's decades-old thinking on spin training needs a new approach.
The dangerous nature of a skidded turn cross-control stall is often overlooked, according to Aviation Performance Solutions CEO Paul “B.J.” Ransbury. In fact, they are attributed to nearly 60 percent of all approach and landing accidents and are almost always fatal. (Photo:  Aviation Performance Solutions)
The dangerous nature of a skidded turn cross-control stall is often overlooked, according to Aviation Performance Solutions CEO Paul “B.J.” Ransbury. In fact, they are attributed to nearly 60 percent of all approach and landing accidents and are almost always fatal. (Photo: Aviation Performance Solutions)

Decades ago, the FAA removed spin training from the private pilot curriculum. Rather than teach spins, the FAA focused on stall recognition and prevention. This paradox promotes a theory that in the absence of a stall, there would be no spin. The problem is that people continue to die from stall/spin accidents.

Today, only flight instructor candidates are required to do spins. Oddly enough, most CFIs today are required to only have a spin “sign off”—a logbook endorsement—and often do not have the thorough in-depth academic or on-aircraft training required to properly teach a spin. 

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Stuart “Kipp” Lau
Contributor - Safety
About the author

Pilot, safety expert, consultant, and aviation journalist Stuart “Kipp” Lau writes about flight safety and airmanship for AIN.

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