How to use this calculator
- Enter true airspeed. Use TAS for the turn geometry.
- Enter turn rate. Use 3 deg/s for standard rate or another target rate.
- Read bank angle. Review the bank angle required for the target rate.
- Check radius. Use the radius and load factor as context only.
How it works
The target turn rate is converted to radians per second, then bank = atan(omega x V / g). Radius is R = V / omega.
Pair it with turn radius, true airspeed and load factor.
Worked example
Verified against the live calculator
At 100 kt TAS and 3 deg/s, the required bank angle is about 15.4 degrees.
Frequently asked questions
What is a standard-rate turn?
A standard-rate turn is 3 degrees per second, completing 360 degrees in 2 minutes.
Should I use indicated or true airspeed?
Use true airspeed for the geometry. Rule-of-thumb cockpit techniques may use indicated airspeed separately.
What formula is used for bank angle?
The calculator uses tan(bank) = turn rate x true airspeed / g.
Does wind affect the bank angle?
Wind affects ground track and drift, but the still-air turn-rate geometry uses airspeed.
Method & assumptions
- Assumes a coordinated level turn at constant true airspeed.
- Does not replace instrument procedures, aircraft limitations, wind correction or ATC instructions.