Pitch and power corrections must be promptly and closely  coordinated. For example, if the vertical speed is correct, but  the airspeed is low, add power. As the power is increased,  the miniature aircraft must be lowered slightly to maintain  constant vertical speed. If the vertical speed is high and the  airspeed is low, lower the miniature aircraft slightly and note  the increase in airspeed to determine whether or not a power  change is also necessary.  [Figure 7-28]  Familiarity with the  approximate power settings helps to keep pitch and power  corrections at a minimum.  To level off from a climb and maintain an altitude, it is  necessary to start the level off before reaching the desired  altitude. The amount of lead varies with rate of climb and  pilot technique. If the airplane is climbing at 1,000 fpm, it  continues to climb at a decreasing rate throughout the transition  to level flight. An effective practice is to lead the altitude by  10 percent of the vertical speed shown (500 fpm/ 50-foot lead,  1,000 fpm/100-foot lead).  To level off at cruising airspeed, apply smooth, steady  forward-elevator pressure toward level flight attitude for  the speed desired. As the attitude indicator shows the pitch  change, the vertical speed needle moves slowly toward zero,  the altimeter needle moves more slowly, and the airspeed  shows acceleration.  [Figure 7-29]  When the altimeter, attitude  indicator, and VSI show level flight, constant changes in pitch  and torque control have to be made as the airspeed increases.  As the airspeed approaches cruising speed, reduce power to  the cruise setting. The amount of lead depends upon the rate  of acceleration of the airplane.  To level off at climbing airspeed, lower the nose to the  pitch attitude appropriate to that airspeed in level flight.  Power is simultaneously reduced to the setting for that  airspeed as the pitch attitude is lowered. If power reduction  is at a rate proportionate to the pitch change, airspeed will  remain constant.  A descent can be made at a variety of airspeeds and attitudes  by reducing power, adding drag, and lowering the nose to  a predetermined attitude. The airspeed eventually stabilizes  at a constant value. Meanwhile, the only flight instrument  providing a positive attitude reference is the attitude indicator.  Without the attitude indicator (such as during a partial panel  descent), the ASI, altimeter, and VSI show varying rates of  change until the airplane decelerates to a constant airspeed at  a constant attitude. During the transition, changes in control  pressure and trim, as well as cross-check and interpretation,  must be accurate to maintain positive control.  Leveling Off Descents 30.0  29.9  29.8  Supporting pitch and bank Primary power Supporting bank Primary bank Primary pitch Figure 7-28.  Airspeed low and vertical speed high—reduce pitch. 7-16