Chandelles

A chandelle is a maximum performance 180-degree climbing turn that begins from straight-and-level flight and concludes with the airplane in a wings-level, nose-high attitude just above stall speed. The goal is not only to gain the most altitude possible for a given bank angle and power setting but also to demonstrate the pilot’s proficiency in managing aircraft control. Mastering the chandelle requires careful coordination of pitch, bank, and power, as well as maintaining situational awareness.

Chandelles are particularly valuable in real-world flying scenarios. Pilots navigating through mountainous terrain, such as canyons, may encounter situations where a turnback maneuver is necessary due to deteriorating weather or obstacles. In these scenarios, a chandelle allows the pilot to quickly reverse direction while gaining altitude, enhancing safety. Additionally, chandelles can be useful in avoiding air traffic. When confronted with converging aircraft, executing a climbing turn can create vertical separation while changing course, providing a greater margin of safety.

The maneuver consists of two distinct phases. During the first 90 degrees, the pilot establishes a coordinated 30-degree bank while increasing pitch and applying full power [Figure 1B]. The objective is to continuously raise the nose to achieve a maximum pitch-up attitude by the 90-degree point. [Figure 1C] Maintaining smooth back pressure on the elevator while adjusting for left-turning tendencies using right rudder is essential.

In the second 90 degrees, the bank is gradually reduced while the pitch remains constant. [Figure 1D] This phase requires careful control to maintain the nose-high attitude as airspeed continues to decrease. The pilot must time the rollout to achieve a wings-level, nose-high attitude precisely at the 180-degree point. [Figure 1E] Correct rudder input remains essential, particularly during a left chandelle where the effects of P-factor and torque are more pronounced.

Figure 1 Chandelle (Airplane Flying Handbook)

Coordination plays a crucial role throughout the maneuver. As airspeed drops, right rudder pressure needs to be progressively increased to counteract adverse yaw and maintain a coordinated turn. Mismanagement of rudder input can lead to slipping or skidding, reducing the effectiveness of the climb and increasing the risk of a stall and/or a spin.

Executing a chandelle requires visual reference points to ensure correct orientation and control. A suitable visual point off the wingtip provides a reference for maintaining the correct bank angle. Highways, rivers, or other long visual lines can further assist in tracking the maneuver’s progress.

Common errors include improper entry airspeed, failure to maintain a constant bank angle, and incorrect use of rudder. Pilots may also struggle with timing the rollout, resulting in an incomplete or excessive turn. Abrupt control inputs, lack of coordination, or focusing too much on instruments instead of visual references are frequent mistakes.

At the conclusion of the chandelle, the airplane should be in a wings-level, nose-high attitude with airspeed just above stall speed. Maintaining this attitude momentarily without stalling demonstrates control proficiency. Afterward, the pilot lowers the nose to regain normal cruise airspeed and completes the maneuver with a return to straight-and-level flight. During the recovery it is very important that you do not lose altitude, but maintain the exit altitude.

A well-executed chandelle not only highlights a pilot’s understanding of aircraft performance and energy management but also builds confidence in handling the aircraft in slow flight conditions. It serves as an excellent training exercise for refining coordination, judgment, and smooth control application.

Procedures

These procedures may apply to different aircraft, however they're specifically written for a Cessna 172 training aircraft. Please refer to the airmen certification standards and your aircraft's operating handbook for specific instructions.

1. Choose an appropriate altitude to complete this maneuver. The ACS specifies at least 1,500 feet AGL. I would recommend choosing a slightly higher altitude so you do not accidentally start below this altitude. Typically 2,000 to 2,500 feet AGL is appropriate.
2. Use an appropriate power setting to maintain altitude and set entry airspeed. Typically you want to enter this maneuver between 90-100 kts. 
3. Choose a prominent reference point off your left/right wing (depending on direction of chandelle) and place it 90 degrees off your wing. Choosing a straight line reference can be especially beneficial because it is visible out both windows during the maneuver. Choosing a shoreline, highway, or power lines can be good reference points.
4. Swiftly but smoothly roll into a 30 degree coordinated turn in the direction of the chandelle.
5. Pitch nose up while smoothly applying full power (or the appropriate power setting for your aircraft)
6. Smoothly increase elevator back pressure so when reaching your 90 degree point your nose at the highest pitch attitude
7. Once reaching your 90 degree point, maintain elevator back pressure (trim as necessary to relieve control pressure) and being a smooth slow roll out of the aircraft's bank. You should roll out slow enough that you are at wings level at the 180 degree point. But not so slow that you overshoot your 180 degree point
   1. When beginning the roll out, for a left chandelle you will primarily use left aileron to roll out
   2. When exiting a right chandelle you will primarily use your right rudder to roll out
8. When reaching your 180 degree point you should be at your minimum controllable airspeed (typically I wait until I hear the stall horn, then pitch for about 2 knots above this airspeed) in a wings level nose up attitude.
9. Begin relieving elevator pressure so your aircraft stops climbing. But do not relieve too much as you DO NOT want to lose altitude at this phase of the maneuver.

Here is a good video that demonstrates the procedures for a chandelle:

One more video that explains the procedures more in depth: