What are the four types of turns in aviation?

The four types of turns in aviation that are most commonly referenced are categorized as medium-level, climbing, descending, and steep turns.

Medium-level turns are executed at a consistent altitude and involve a moderate bank angle, which allows for a balance between maintaining altitude and making effective directional changes. Climbing turns involve a bank angle while increasing altitude, requiring careful management of power and pitch to ensure the aircraft continues to gain elevation safely. Descending turns, conversely, are performed while reducing altitude, and pilots need to take into account the aircraft's descent rate and speed to maintain control and safety during the maneuver. Steep turns are defined by a more pronounced bank angle (usually more than 45 degrees) and require a deeper understanding of the aircraft's performance characteristics and load factors, as they can lead to increased stall risks if not executed correctly.

Understanding these types of turns is crucial for pilots, as each turn type affects aircraft performance and handling differently, thereby impacting safety and maneuverability during flight.