AA.III.DFAA-S-ACS-11A · Nov 2023
Glassy Water Approach and Landing (ASES, AMES)
To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with glassy water approach and landing. Note: If a glassy water condition does not exist, the applicant must be evaluated by simulating the Task. Note: See Appendix 3: Aircraft, Equipment, and Operational Requirements & Limitations for information related to this Task.
Bottom line
When landing, the flat, featureless surface makes it far more difficult to gauge altitude accurately, and reflections can create confusing optical illusions.
FAA references
- SEA ch. 3 (p. 3-3) — FAA-H-8083-23
- SEA ch. 6 (p. 6-6) — FAA-H-8083-23
- SEA ch. 9 (p. 9-4) — FAA-H-8083-23
Knowledge
- AA.III.D.K1: A stabilized approach, including energy management concepts.
- AA.III.D.K2: Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on approach and landing performance.
- AA.III.D.K3: Wind correction techniques on approach and landing.
- AA.III.D.K4: When and why glassy water techniques are used.
- AA.III.D.K5: How a glassy water approach and landing is executed.
Risk management
- AA.III.D.R1: Selection of the approach path and touchdown area based on aircraft limitations, available distance, surface conditions, and wind.
- AA.III.D.R2: Go-around/rejected landing.
- AA.III.D.R3: Collision hazards.
- AA.III.D.R4: Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).
- AA.III.D.R5: Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
- AA.III.D.R6: Gear position in an amphibious airplane.
Skills
- AA.III.D.S1: Coordinate with crew, if applicable, and complete the appropriate checklist(s).
- AA.III.D.S2: Make radio calls as appropriate.
- AA.III.D.S3: Ensure that the landing gear and water rudders are retracted, if applicable.
- AA.III.D.S4: Consider the landing surface, visual attitude references, water depth, and collision hazards and select the proper approach and landing path
- AA.III.D.S5: Establish the recommended approach and landing configuration, airspeed, and trim, and adjust pitch attitude and power as required to maintai
- AA.III.D.S6: Maintain a stabilized approach and recommended airspeed, ±5 knots.
- AA.III.D.S7: Make smooth, timely, and correct power and control adjustments to maintain proper pitch attitude and rate of descent to touchdown.
- AA.III.D.S8: Maintain directional control throughout the approach and landing.
- AA.III.D.S9: Contact the water in a proper pitch attitude, and slow to idle taxi speed.
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