What is the importance of maintaining coordinated flight?

Maintaining coordinated flight is crucial because it directly impacts the efficiency of aircraft performance and significantly reduces pilot workload. When an aircraft is in coordinated flight, the ailerons and rudder work together effectively, allowing the aircraft to turn smoothly without unwanted yaw or lateral movement. This coordination helps to minimize drag, thereby enhancing overall performance and ensuring the aircraft responds predictively to the pilot's inputs.

When the aircraft is not in coordination, the pilot may need to exert more effort to keep the aircraft level or to control its path, which can lead to increased fatigue, especially during longer flights. By maintaining coordination, pilots can focus on managing other aspects of flying, such as navigation and communication, thus leading to a more efficient and safer flight experience. Keeping the aircraft in coordinated flight also contributes to smoother handling characteristics, allowing for better control and comfort.