AI.VII.CFAA-S-ACS-25 · Nov 2023
Soft-Field Takeoff and Climb (ASEL)
To determine the applicant understands soft-field takeoff and climb, can apply that knowledge, manage associated risks, demonstrate appropriate skills, and provide effective instruction.
Bottom line
If during a soft-field takeoff and climb, for example, the pilot attempts to climb out of ground effect without first attaining normal climb pitch attitude and airspeed, the airplane may inadvertently enter the region of reversed command at a dangerously low altitude.
FAA references
- PHAK ch. 11 (p. 11-12) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
Knowledge
- AI.VII.C.K1: Purpose of and procedures for soft-field takeoff and climb.
- AI.VII.C.K2: Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on takeoff and climb performance.
- AI.VII.C.K3: Best angle of climb speed (VX) and best rate of climb speed (VY).
- AI.VII.C.K4: Appropriate airplane configuration.
- AI.VII.C.K5: Ground effect.
- AI.VII.C.K6: Importance of weight transfer from wheels to wings.
- AI.VII.C.K7: Left turning tendencies.
- AI.VII.C.K8: Common errors related to this Task.
Risk management
- AI.VII.C.R1: Selection of runway based on pilot capability, airplane performance and limitations, available distance, and wind.
- AI.VII.C.R2: Effects of:
- AI.VII.C.R2a: a. Crosswind
- AI.VII.C.R2b: b. Windshear
- AI.VII.C.R2c: c. Tailwind
- AI.VII.C.R2d: d. Wake turbulence
- AI.VII.C.R2e: e. Runway surface/condition
- AI.VII.C.R3: Abnormal operations, including planning for:
- AI.VII.C.R3a: a. Rejected takeoff
- AI.VII.C.R3b: b. Potential engine failure in takeoff/climb phase of flight
- AI.VII.C.R4: Collision hazards.
- AI.VII.C.R5: Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).
- AI.VII.C.R6: Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
Skills
- AI.VII.C.S1: Complete the appropriate checklist(s).
- AI.VII.C.S2: Make radio calls as appropriate.
- AI.VII.C.S3: Verify assigned/correct runway.
- AI.VII.C.S4: Determine wind direction with or without visible wind direction indicators.
- AI.VII.C.S5: Position the flight controls for the existing wind, if applicable.
- AI.VII.C.S6: Clear the area, maintain necessary flight control inputs, taxi into takeoff position and align the airplane on the runway centerline without
- AI.VII.C.S7: Confirm takeoff power and proper engine and flight instrument indications.
- AI.VII.C.S8: Establish and maintain a pitch attitude that transfers the weight of the airplane from the wheels to the wings as rapidly as possible.
- AI.VII.C.S9: Lift off at the lowest possible airspeed and remain in ground effect while accelerating to VX or VY, as appropriate.
- AI.VII.C.S10: Establish a pitch attitude for VX or VY, as appropriate, and maintain selected airspeed ±5 knots during the climb.
- AI.VII.C.S11: Configure the airplane after a positive rate of climb has been verified or in accordance with airplane manufacturer’s instructions.
- AI.VII.C.S12: Maintain VX or VY, as appropriate, ±5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.
- AI.VII.C.S13: Maintain directional control and proper wind-drift correction throughout takeoff and climb.
- AI.VII.C.S14: Comply with noise abatement procedures, as applicable.
- AI.VII.C.S15: Analyze and correct common errors related to this Task.
Build understanding you can use
Unlock the full lesson and continue studying this element.
- Full teaching sections: Task bottom line
- Check your understanding with answers you can reveal