Seconds from Disaster - Why Right Pedal Matters
Oct 07, 2025Every helicopter pilot learns how to perform a sprag clutch check.
But surprisingly, many have never been taught the most important part of the maneuver — adding right pedal when rolling off the throttle.
It sounds small, but the mistake can have big consequences.
We’ve seen it firsthand here at H.O.G.S.
A Real Lesson Caught on Camera
In today’s video, Kenny shares dramatic footage from the H.O.G.S. archives — a moment caught during a flight with one of our former students that nearly turned into a disaster.
During a sprag clutch check on a slick surface, the student rolled off the throttle without adding right pedal.
The sudden change in torque sent the helicopter’s nose whipping right, spinning the tail dangerously close to the fuel pump behind them.
It happened in seconds.
And it’s a moment every pilot should see.
What Went Wrong
When the throttle rolls off, torque to the main rotor drops instantly — but the tail rotor keeps pushing.
With no counteracting torque from the main rotor, the helicopter wants to spin.
Add a slick ramp, and the aircraft will slide or yaw faster than most people can react.
That’s why adding right pedal during the sprag clutch check isn’t just a “nice-to-do.”
It’s a safety must.
A Common Oversight
This isn’t a one-time mistake.
Over the years, Kenny’s heard the same story from pilots all over the country:
“Nobody ever told me that.”
So why isn’t this simple — and critical — step being taught more often?
That’s the question we’re asking today.
Instructors and flight schools nationwide should be emphasizing this across every training program.
It’s quick, it’s easy, and it can prevent a serious accident.
One Small Habit That Saves Big
Like many of the lessons shared in our Final Approach Course, this one comes down to awareness and habit.
If you make adding right pedal a standard part of every sprag clutch check, it becomes instinct — not reaction.
It’s a habit that can save your tail (literally).
Ready to Finish Strong?
If you’re struggling with incomplete training or want to polish your skills before a check-ride, our Final Approach Course is built to get you finished — fast, safe, and confident.
📍 Now booking for October.
👉 Visit FinalApproachCourse.com or email [email protected] to reserve your spot.
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