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Aviation Safety - Upset Prevention & Recovery Training (UPRT)


Pilot standing in front of the Super Decathlon 8KCAB, ready for his Upset Prevention & Recovery Training (UPRT) with Upright Aviation Burlington.

Nothing is more crucial in the aviation sector than the safety of both passengers, crew, and aircraft. One of the most critical safety courses a pilot can experience is UPRT - Upset Prevention and Recovery Training.


This specialized training helps pilots prepare for unexpected, unusual, and even avoidance of certain events during flight. This is especially true for loss of control in flight situations, which are the main cause of aviation accidents and fatalities worldwide.  


What is Upset Prevention and Recovery Training?


UPRT trains pilots to recognize, avoid, and recover from in-flight upsets when the aircraft operates outside its regular flight parameters; weather, mechanical difficulties, pilot errors, or other unforeseen circumstances can cause these disruptions. Upset situations are often characterized by steep climbs, descents, or unexpected flight attitudes that, if not handled properly, might result in a loss of control.



Classroom space at Upright Aviation’s hangar in Burlington.


Pilots attend classroom sessions to learn about the aerodynamics involved in various flying conditions, followed by practical flight sessions in which they experience these conditions firsthand in a controlled setting. The goal is to ensure that pilots can rapidly determine when an aircraft is upset and respond efficiently to regain control.


The Growing Concern of Loss of Control In-flight (LOC-I)


LOC-I occurs when an aircraft deviates from controlled flight owing to a pilot mistake, weather, mechanical failure, or other causes. According to global aviation safety data, LOC-I accidents are almost always disastrous, with 97% of occurrences resulting in fatalities for both passengers and crew. The nature of LOC-I occurrences might make recovery difficult if a pilot is not properly schooled in upset recovery procedures. This is where UPRT plays a critical role in pilot education and aviation safety.


Key Components of UPRT


Recognition and Avoidance 


The primary goal of UPRT is to teach pilots to recognize the early indicators of an upset before it becomes unmanageable. This necessitates a detailed understanding of aerodynamics, aircraft constraints, and the ability to recognize warning signals from flying equipment.


Flight Envelope Protection 


Pilots are educated to keep the aircraft inside its safe operational limits, referred to as the flight envelope. UPRT gives them the skills to stay within these limits and avoid putting the aircraft in a position where recovery is difficult or impossible.


Pilot flying sideways during an Upset Prevention & Recovery Training with Upright Aviation.

Recovery Techniques


If an upset occurs, UPRT teaches pilots the key techniques necessary to restore control. This entails using procedures including power modifications, control inputs, and attitude changes to return the aircraft to stable flight safely.


Practical Training


At Upright Aviation in Burlington, pilots practice real-world scenarios in Super Decathlon 8KCAB and are placed in unexpected positions or flight conditions. This hands-on training allows them to respond quickly and efficiently in emergencies.


Human Factors

UPRT also studies the psychological components of flight, such as stress management, decision-making under pressure, and spatial orientation. These human elements can have a significant impact on how pilots respond to in-flight disruptions.



Certified Pilot Geoff Armstrong of Upright Aviation showing a pilot inside the Super Decathlon 8KCAB during an Upset Prevention and Recovery Training session.


Why is UPRT Essential for All Pilots?


The training is not just vital for commercial aircraft but for private pilots too. Anyone responsible for flying an aircraft should undergo UPRT. The unpredictable nature of LOC-I events implies that even the most experienced pilots can be caught off-guard if they don't have the required training to handle such upsets. 


UPRT is a key component of pilot training, ensuring that pilots are prepared to manage even the most difficult situations in the air, and is an essential part of aviation safety


Upright Aviation Academy provides Initial UPRT Training (UPRT-L1) and Renewal UPRT Training (UPRT-R) for pilots to enhance their recognition, avoidance, and recovery skills. 




Whether you’re a trained pilot, an aviation enthusiast, or an adrenaline junkie, Upright Aviation Academy offers one-of-a-kind opportunities for clients. We’re conveniently located between Toronto and Niagara Falls at Burlington Airport, CONTACT US for Safety Courses, Aerobatics Training, or a Thrill Ride with our Certified Pilots.


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