VMC Demo Techniques
The VMC Demo on the CMEL Checkride can be a bit tricky for those new to multiengine flying. Before you get in the airplane, make sure you understand Vmca thoroughly, then reference the ACS task below. What I've seen is that many Seminole students rush into the maneuver and have jerky responses to hold heading, and then some other variable wanders away. Skill 2 doesn't give you a time limit for setting up at Vyse+10, so don't make life harder than it has to be. A way to make it easier is by slowing the reaction loop. Instead of starting out right above blue line and chopping the "dead" throttle while jamming the "good" throttle forward, try this sequence instead:
Tip for instructors: block the maximum rudder travel with your other foot to give yourself some wiggle room in case you need it.
- Set up from a ~110 KIAS cruise at >4500 feet (POH minimum is 4k AGL, don't bust on that one).
- Complete your CREACS and low-speed maneuver floor-to-door flow: flaps up, cowl flaps open, full mix, gradual full prop, boost pumps, gear up.
- Stabilize at 110 KIAS and pick your visual point, then bug it.
- Gradually ease the "dead" engine back as you add opposite rudder and a bit of bank while looking at your spot. Take your time with this.
- Gradually roll onto the "good throttle" until it's full as you add more rudder force, again looking at your spot.
- Now you can start the climb mentioned in Skill 2: gradually bring that nose up and add rudder as it slows.
- Call out the first sign of loss of control, then ease the good throttle back as you ease off the rudder and lower the nose.
- Gradually roll back onto the good throttle as you bring that nose back up. There's no time limit, just that altitude floor that you should be well clear of.
- Stabilize at blue line, then recover to normal flight.
Tip for instructors: block the maximum rudder travel with your other foot to give yourself some wiggle room in case you need it.
