What should a pilot do if they drifted left during straight and level flight?

In straight and level flight, maintaining a balanced flight path is crucial for safe operation. If a pilot notices that the aircraft is drifting to the left, it indicates that the aircraft is experiencing a lateral imbalance, likely caused by aerodynamic forces or unequal lift. To correct this drift, the appropriate action is to apply rightward pressure to the cyclic.

Applying rightward pressure helps to shift the helicopter's thrust vector to the right side, counteracting the leftward drift and helping to realign the aircraft with its intended flight path. This maneuver utilizes the cyclic control to manipulate the orientation of the rotor disk and, consequently, the lift and drag characteristics on each side of the helicopter.

In essence, by pushing the cyclic to the right, the pilot alters the distribution of lift away from the left, allowing the aircraft to return to a straight and level position. This adjustment is essential for maintaining control and ensuring stability during flight maneuvers.