Which control should be adjusted first when leveling off from a climb?

• A. Pitch
• B. Power
• C. Trim
• D. Airspeed

Answer: (A)

When leveling off from a climb, the first control you adjust is the pitch. The goal is to cancel the vertical speed and stop the ascent, which is done by smoothly lowering the nose toward the horizon. This reduces the angle of attack just enough to bring the flight path back to level and removes the climb rate.

Once the climb rate is neutralized and you’re on a level path, you then adjust power to set and stabilize the airspeed for the new flight condition. After airspeed is stable, you trim to relieve stick pressure and keep the aeroplane in level flight with minimal effort.