When is it appropriate to initiate an upset recovery?

Initiating an upset recovery is appropriate whenever there is excessive divergence from the intended flight path, making it the key consideration in managing such situations. This divergence could occur due to various factors, such as an unexpected loss of control, a significant increase in pitch or bank angle beyond normal operating limits, or unusual attitudes that are not aligned with the planned trajectory of flight.

Recognizing excessive divergence from the expected flight path is crucial for safety because it indicates that the aircraft may be entering a situation that could lead to loss of control or an unsafe flying attitude. The pilots are trained to assess the situation continuously and take corrective action based on their observations of the aircraft's performance relative to what is normally expected.

Focusing only on pitch or bank limit values could fail to consider other parameters, such as airspeed, altitude, or the overall flight path, which may also signal the need for recovery. Additionally, limiting recovery actions to rapid airspeed changes does not encompass the broader conditions that might necessitate an urgent response. Likewise, responding solely to encounters with turbulence without an assessment of the aircraft's attitude and flight path does not properly address the critical nature of upsets. Therefore, recognizing excessive divergence from the flight path encompasses all potential factors leading to an upset, making it