What does the angle of bank refer to in flight maneuvers?

The angle of bank refers specifically to the incline of the aircraft relative to the horizontal plane during flight maneuvers. This angle is crucial for controlling the aircraft's turn performance, as it determines the amount of lift and load factor experienced by the aircraft. When an aircraft banks to turn, the angle between the wings and the horizontal plane changes, allowing the horizontal component of lift to act as the centripetal force needed to execute a turn. Proper understanding and management of the angle of bank are essential for pilots to ensure safe and efficient maneuvering, particularly in situations that require precise control.

The other options do not accurately define the angle of bank and relate to different aspects of flight. The steepness of climb pertains to vertical ascent rather than lateral inclination. The amount of drift under wind conditions involves the effect of external factors on flight path rather than the aircraft's orientation. The rate of descent during a turn is related to altitude management rather than the specific angle of the aircraft in relation to the horizontal plane.