Section 7
Description of the Airplane and Systems
Columbia 400 (LC41-550FG)
RC050002
Initial Issue of Manual: November 10, 2004
7-18
Latest Revision Level/Date: -/11-10-2004
Steering –
Directional control of the airplane is maintained through differential braking.
Applying pressure to a single brake introduces a yawing moment and causes the free castoring
nose wheel to turn in the same direction. As is the case with most light aircraft, turning requires a
certain amount of forward momentum. Once the airplane is moving forward, applying right or
left brake will cause the airplane to steer in the same direction. There are two important
considerations. First, use enough power so that forward momentum is maintained, otherwise the
differential braking will stop the airplane. Second, avoid the tendency to ride the brakes since
this will increase wear. Some momentary differential braking may be required for takeoff until
the control surfaces become effective.