PLT183: Ascents And Descents
What code PLT183 covers, why the FAA tests it, and how to study Ascents And Descents before your checkride.
Recall balloon flight operations - ascent / descent
What this means for your checkride
In a hot air balloon the pilot initiates an ascent by adding heat to raise the temperature inside the envelope above the equilibrium value for the current altitude, and allows a descent by letting the air cool or by venting. Because there is a lag between the burn and the balloon's response, inputs are made early and smoothly to control the rate. In a gas balloon the same changes are made by jettisoning ballast to ascend and releasing lifting gas to descend.
Managing the temperature or ballast against the equilibrium condition is how a pilot controls climb and descent rates safely.
The balloon does not respond instantly to a burn. The pilot must anticipate the lag, or the balloon will overshoot the intended altitude or rate.
Where to study it
A code on your test report is an area of deficiency. An authorized instructor must review it with you and endorse that review before you take the practical test, and the examiner may revisit it during the oral. Study it until you can explain it out loud, not just recognize the answer.