Understanding UPRT: Upset Prevention and Recovery Training

by | Jun 27, 2024

Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT) is a critical component of modern pilot education, designed to enhance flight safety by equipping pilots with the skills and knowledge necessary to manage unexpected flight situations. This training is not only about responding to in-flight emergencies but also about preventing them through proactive measures.

The importance of UPRT

UPRT focuses on three main areas: prevention, recognition and recovery. Prevention involves strategies and techniques to avoid situations that can lead to an upset, such as loss of control in flight (LOC-I). Recognition training allows pilots to detect any deviation from the intended flight path as early as possible. Recovery training, on the other hand, teaches pilots how to regain control of an aircraft that has entered an unintended state.

The significance of UPRT cannot be overstated. Loss of control in flight is the leading cause of aviation accidents worldwide, both in commercial and light aviation. Through comprehensive UPRT, pilots learn to recognise early signs of an upset and implement corrective actions before the situation escalates. This training ultimately enhances overall flight safety, making it a crucial part of a pilot’s skill set.

 

Core elements

  • Theoretical knowledge: Pilots start with ground school, where they learn the principles of aerodynamics, human factors, and the mechanics of upsets. This theoretical foundation is essential for understanding why upsets occur and how they can be managed.
  • Simulation: Using advanced flight simulators, pilots can experience a variety of upset scenarios in a controlled environment. This allows them to practise recovery techniques without the risks associated with real flight.
  • In-flight training: The practical component of UPRT involves flying with an instructor to practise upset recovery in actual flight conditions. This hands-on experience is invaluable for addressing the physiological and psychological elements of Flight Upsets that cannot be replicated in a Flight Simulator., and develops the confidence and competence needed to handle real-life situations.

 

Benefits

  • Enhanced situational awareness: Pilots become more adept at recognising and anticipating potential upsets, allowing them to take preventive measures.
  • Improved recovery skills: Pilots gain confidence and proficiency in executing recovery manoeuvres, reducing the likelihood of accidents.
  • Increased safety margins: UPRT adds an extra layer of safety to flight operations, benefiting both pilots and passengers.
  • Development of resilience to Startle and Surprise, allowing the pilot to recover from Flight Upsets when Human Factor issues might otherwise prove and overwhelming distraction.

 

UPRT at Ultimate High

At Ultimate High, we offer comprehensive UPRT courses tailored to meet the needs of both novice and experienced pilots.

As one of Europe’s foremost flight safety training academies, we provide a range of training options, from tailored flights to multi-day courses, all designed to enhance your flying skills and safety.

Our team of ex-military instructors brings a wealth of experience and expertise to every training session. Whether you aim to learn advanced aerobatics, improve your upset recovery techniques, or simply become a safer pilot, our training programmes are designed to help you achieve your goals.

Our students come from diverse backgrounds, including aspiring aerobatic pilots and seasoned test pilots from renowned companies like Boeing and Rolls-Royce. This breadth of experience underscores our commitment to excellence and safety in aviation training.

Investing in UPRT is an investment in your safety and proficiency as a pilot.

At Ultimate High, we are dedicated to helping you reach new heights in your flying career. Learn more about our training programmes and how we can support your journey to becoming a better, safer pilot.

 

author avatar
Neil Jones Pilot
Neil started his flying career flying Sea King helicopters with the Fleet Air Arm, which included a tour in the Falklands. He then moved onto the Sea Harrier, based on the Ark Royal, and also flew the Hunter and instructed on Hawk aircraft whilst with the Navy. Neil was at Virgin for 24 years flying the Airbus A320, 330 & 340 and was also a Training Captain. ‘Jonesy’ is one of Ultimate High’s most experienced Flight Experience and Safety pilots and particularly enjoys flying extreme aerobatics in the Extra 300.

Our flight experiences have been designed with every kind of thrill-seeker in mind, whether it's your dream to fly with a real-life fighter pilot - or be the fighter pilot yourself!  Browse our flight experiences below and then complete our quick form to book.

Once you've submitted your booking form and made your payment, just get in touch with us to finalise your arrangements.  You may also find it useful to consult our FAQs section, or feel free to give us a call or send an email with any queries you may have.

fly with a fighter pilot

FROM £395

Fly with a fighter pilot in an ex-military training aircraft and fly the aerobatic manoeuvres yourself!

top gun air combat

FROM £695

Fly Real Top Gun Aerobatics and Air Combat Manoeuvres. Do you feel the need - the need for speed?

Utter nutter flight

FROM £695

Can you handle THE BIG FIVE EXTREME MANOEUVRES?

Ultimate Aerobatics

FROM £525

Fly with a top Aerobatic Pilot in the world's top two-seat stunt plane and then have a go yourself!

space flight experience

FROM £395

Feel what it's like to be weightless under Zero G.

Love is in the air

FROM £1150 FOR TWO

What better way for two people to enjoy a trip over the beautiful countryside - in 2 aircraft in formation?

Fly Wine Dine!

FROM £1250 FOR TWO

An exhilarating day for two that begins with a thrilling flight and finishes with fine wine!

Gift Vouchers

CHOOSE HOW MUCH

Give the gift of Ultimate High to a friend or relative and let them craft their own package.