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accelerate to the best climb speed. If you choose to con- tinue the takeoff, verify that full power is applied, then, slowly lower the nose, making sure the gyroplane does not contact the surface. While in ground effect, acceler- ate to the best climb speed. Then, adjust the nose pitch attitude to maintain that airspeed. 

## COMMON ERRORS 

The following errors might occur when practicing a lift-off at a low airspeed. 

1. Failure to check rotor for proper operation, track, and r.p.m. prior to initiating takeoff. 

2. Use of a power setting that does not simulate a “behind the power curve” situation. 

3. Poor directional control. 

4. Rotation at a speed that is inappropriate for the maneuver. 

5. Poor judgement in determining whether to abort or continue takeoff. 

6. Failure to establish and maintain proper climb attitude and airspeed, if takeoff is continued. 

7. Not maintaining the desired ground track during the climb. 

## PILOT-INDUCED OSCILLATION (PIO) 

Pilot-induced oscillation, sometimes referred to as por- poising, is an unintentional up-and-down oscillation of the gyroplane accompanied with alternating climbs and descents of the aircraft. PIO is often the result of an inexperienced pilot overcontrolling the gyroplane, but this condition can also be induced by gusty wind con- ditions. While this condition is usually thought of as a longitudinal problem, it can also happen laterally. 

As with most other rotor-wing aircraft, gyroplanes experience a slight delay between control input and the reaction of the aircraft. This delay may cause an inex- perienced pilot to apply more control input than required, causing a greater aircraft response than was desired. Once the error has been recognized, opposite control input is applied to correct the flight attitude. Because of the nature of the delay in aircraft response, it is possible for the corrections to be out of synchro- nization with the movements of the aircraft and aggra- vate the undesired changes in attitude. The result is PIO, or unintentional oscillations that can grow rapidly in magnitude. [Figure 21-1] 

In gyroplanes with an open cockpit and limited flight instruments, it can be difficult for an inexperienced pilot to recognize a level flight attitude due to the lack of visual references. As a result, PIO can develop as the pilot chases a level flight attitude and introduces climb- ing and descending oscillations. PIO can also develop if a wind gust displaces the aircraft, and the control inputs made to correct the attitude are out of phase with the aircraft movements. Because the rotor disc angle decreases at higher speeds and cyclic control becomes more sensitive, PIO is more likely to occur and can be more pronounced at high airspeeds. To minimize the possibility of PIO, avoid high-speed flight in gusty conditions, and make only small control inputs. After making a control input, wait briefly and observe the reaction of the aircraft before making another input. If PIO is encountered, reduce power and place the cyclic in the position for a normal climb. Once the oscillations have stopped, slowly return the throttle and cyclic to their normal positions. The likelihood of encountering PIO decreases greatly as experience is gained, and the ability to subconsciously anticipate the reactions of the gyroplane to control inputs is developed. 

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