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AI.II.L.K1aFAA-S-ACS-25 · Nov 2023Knowledge

a. Size and location

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Characteristics of a water surface as affected by features, such as: a. Size and location

Bottom line

A competent seaplane pilot is knowledgeable in the characteristics of water and how they affect the seaplane. Winds, currents, or objects traveling along the water's surface create waves.

Key numbers

Key numbers for a. Size and location
NumberWhat it means
less than 5 knots, with ample roomDownwind wind

FAA references

  1. SEA ch. 3 (p. 3-1) — FAA-H-8083-23
  2. SEA ch. 6 (p. 6-5) — FAA-H-8083-23
  3. AIM 7-6-9 (Seaplane Safety) — AIM Basic 2/20/25 w/ Change 1 (8/7/25) & Change 2 (1/22/26)
  4. RMH ch. 3 (p. 3-7) — FAA-H-8083-2A
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