track. These reference points should be kept in line throughout the maneuver. [Figure 9-4] Rearward hovering flight may be necessary to move the helicopter to a specific area when the situation is such that forward or sideward hovering flight cannot be used. During the maneuver, maintain a constant groundspeed, altitude, and heading. Due to the limited visibility behind a helicopter, it is important that you make sure that the area behind the helicopter is cleared before beginning the maneuver. Use of ground personnel is rec- ommended. Before starting rearward hovering flight, pick out two reference points in front of, and in line with the heli- copter just like you would if you were hovering for- ward. [Figure 9-3] The movement of the helicopter should be such that these points remain in line. Begin the maneuver from a normal hovering altitude by applying cyclic toward the side in which the movement is desired. As the movement begins, return the cyclic toward the neutral position to keep the groundspeed at a slow rate—no faster than a brisk walk. Throughout the maneuver, maintain a constant groundspeed and ground track with cyclic. Maintain heading, which in this maneuver is perpendicular to the ground track, with the antitorque pedals, and a constant altitude with the collective. Use the throttle to maintain the proper operating r.p.m. Begin the maneuver from a normal hovering altitude by applying rearward pressure on the cyclic. After the movement has begun, position the cyclic to maintain a slow groundspeed (no faster than a brisk walk). Throughout the maneuver, maintain constant ground- speed and ground track with the cyclic, a constant heading with the antitorque pedals, constant altitude with the collective, and the proper r.p.m. with the throttle. To stop the rearward movement, apply forward cyclic and hold it until the helicopter stops. As the motion stops, return the cyclic to the neutral position. Also, as in the case of forward and sideward hovering flight, opposite cyclic can be used to level the helicopter and let it drift to a stop. To stop the sideward movement, apply cyclic pres- sure in the direction opposite to that of movement and hold it until the helicopter stops. As motion stops, return the cyclic to the neutral position to prevent movement in the opposite direction. Applying sufficient opposite cyclic pressure to level the helicopter may also stop sideward move- ment. The helicopter then drifts to a stop. Taxiing refers to operations on, or near the surface of taxiways or other prescribed routes. In helicopters, there are three different types of taxiing. 9-8 TAXIING COMMON ERRORS COMMON ERRORS HOVERING—REARWARD FLIGHT TECHNIQUE 4. Failure to maintain proper r.p.m. 5. Failure to make sure the area is clear prior to starting the maneuver. 1. Exaggerated movement of the cyclic, resulting in overcontrolling and erratic movement over the surface. 2. Failure to use proper antitorque pedal control, resulting in excessive heading change. 3. Failure to maintain desired hovering altitude. 5. Failure to make sure the area is clear prior to starting the maneuver. 4. Failure to maintain proper r.p.m. 3. Failure to maintain desired hovering altitude. 2. Failure to use the antitorque pedals properly, resulting in excessive heading change. 1. Exaggerated movement of the cyclic resulting in overcontrolling and an uneven movement over the surface. Figure 9-4. The key to hovering sideward is establishing at least two reference points that help you maintain a straight track over the ground while keeping a constant heading. ReferenceGLYPH<.notdef> Points