What is the critical action to take during a low-G condition?

During a low-G condition, the most critical action is to immediately and smoothly apply aft cyclic. A low-G condition occurs when the helicopter experiences a reduction in lift, which can often lead to a situation known as "loss of effective translational lift.” This can result in an uncontrollable descent or a roll, as the helicopter begins to lose its ability to maintain stable flight.

Applying aft cyclic is vital because it helps to reestablish positive G forces, counteracting the low-G condition and preventing the helicopter from entering a potentially dangerous state known as “helicopter rollback.” This action will pitch the nose of the helicopter upward, allowing for a reapplication of the lift and restoring control over the aircraft. Smoothness in this control input is essential to avoid abrupt movements that could exacerbate the situation.

Other maneuvers, such as installing collective pitch changes or lateral cyclic adjustments, do not appropriately address the issue at hand as it pertains to recovering from low-G flight. Increasing collective pitch may not effectively restore lift if the core issue of insufficient forward thrust and loss of lift remains prevalent. Similarly, turning the helicopter into the wind does not rectify the physiological flight condition of low-G; instead, it could further complicate the control response needed for recovery