AI.IX.EFAA-S-ACS-25 · Nov 2023
Ground Reference Maneuvers
To determine the applicant understands ground reference maneuvers, can apply that knowledge, manage associated risks, demonstrate appropriate skills, and provide effective instruction. Note: The evaluator selects at least one ground reference maneuver for the applicant to demonstrate.
Bottom line
After mastering ground reference maneuvers, the pilot should be able to command the airplane to specific pitch, roll, and yaw attitudes, correct for the effects of wind drift, and control the airplane’s orientation in relation to ground-based references. Ground reference maneuvers are generally flown at altitudes between 600 and 1,000 feet above ground level (AGL).
FAA references
- AFH ch. 7 (p. 7-18) — FAA-H-8083-3C
- AFH ch. 7 (p. 7-15) — FAA-H-8083-3C
- AFH ch. 7 (p. 7-2) — FAA-H-8083-3C
- AFH ch. 7 (p. 7-5) — FAA-H-8083-3C
Knowledge
- AI.IX.E.K1: Purpose of and procedures for ground reference maneuvers.
- AI.IX.E.K2: Effects of wind on ground track and relation to a ground reference.
- AI.IX.E.K3: Effects of bank angle and groundspeed on rate and radius of turn.
- AI.IX.E.K4: Relationship of rectangular course to airport traffic pattern.
- AI.IX.E.K5: Common errors related to this Task.
Risk management
- AI.IX.E.R1: Division of attention between aircraft control and orientation.
- AI.IX.E.R2: Collision hazards.
- AI.IX.E.R3: Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).
- AI.IX.E.R4: Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
- AI.IX.E.R5: Uncoordinated flight.
Skills
- AI.IX.E.S1: Clear the area.
- AI.IX.E.S2: Select a suitable ground reference area, line, or point as appropriate.
- AI.IX.E.S3: Plan the maneuver:
- AI.IX.E.S3a: a. Rectangular course: enter a left or right pattern, 600 to 1,000 feet above ground level (AGL) at an appropriate distance from the selecte
- AI.IX.E.S3b: b. S-turns: enter perpendicular to the selected reference line, 600 to 1,000 feet AGL at an appropriate distance from the selected reference
- AI.IX.E.S3c: c. Turns around a point: enter at an appropriate distance from the reference point, 600 to 1,000 feet AGL at an appropriate distance from th
- AI.IX.E.S4: Apply adequate wind-drift correction during straight and turning flight to maintain a constant ground track around a rectangular reference a
- AI.IX.E.S5: If performing S-Turns, reverse the turn directly over the selected reference line; if performing turns around a point, complete turns in eit
- AI.IX.E.S6: Divide attention between airplane control, traffic avoidance and the ground track while maintaining coordinated flight.
- AI.IX.E.S7: Maintain altitude ±100 feet; maintain airspeed ±10 knots.
- AI.IX.E.S8: Analyze and correct common errors related to this Task.
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