What is the required airspeed variability during steep turns in PPL?

The required airspeed variability during steep turns in a Private Pilot License (PPL) is ±10 knots. This standard is in place to ensure that pilots maintain adequate control of the aircraft while performing steep turns, which typically involve a bank angle of 50 degrees or more. Maintaining a consistent airspeed is crucial during these maneuvers, as variations that exceed this tolerance could lead to aerodynamic issues or loss of control.

Airspeed is tightly linked to the aircraft's performance characteristics, and exceeding the ±10 knots margin can affect the stall speed, maneuverability, and overall handling of the aircraft. Steep turns require pilots to manage their energy state carefully, and staying within this airspeed limitation helps to ensure safety and proper execution.

While other options present broader tolerances, they could lead to adverse flight characteristics or an increase in the risk of unintentional stalls or excessive banking, thus undermining the purpose of the maneuver as a demonstration of precision and skill. Hence, the tolerance of ±10 knots is essential to the integrity of steep turns within the PPL curriculum.