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How does banking no more than 5 degrees affect the VMCA?

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Final answer:

Banking no more than 5 degrees towards the operative engine can affect VMCA by potentially requiring a higher speed to maintain directional control, as this limited bank angle reduces the effectiveness of counteracting the yawing moment caused by asymmetrical thrust.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question concerns the relationship between bank angle and VMCA, which stands for Minimum Control Speed Airborne. VMCA is an aviation term that refers to the minimum flight speed at which an aircraft can maintain controlled flight with one engine inoperative. If an aircraft banks more than 5 degrees towards the operating engine in a twin-engine airplane, it can help in maintaining control because the lift vector is tilted towards the functioning engine, supporting the yawing moment created by the asymmetrical thrust. However, banking no more than 5 degrees limits the effectiveness of this technique, potentially resulting in a higher VMCA to maintain directional control. Pilots must be careful when banking an aircraft with an inoperative engine, as excessive bank can lead to loss of control or an accelerated stall.

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