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AI.VII.C.S9FAA-S-ACS-25 · Nov 2023Skills

Lift off at the lowest possible airspeed and remain in ground effect while accelerating...

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Lift off at the lowest possible airspeed and remain in ground effect while accelerating to VX or VY, as appropriate.

Bottom line

Due to the reduced drag in ground effect, the aircraft may seem capable of takeoff well below the recommended speed. 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

  1. PHAK ch. 5 (p. 5-12) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
  2. PHAK ch. 11 (p. 11-12) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
  3. AIH ch. 10 (p. 10-8) — FAA-H-8083-9B
  4. AIM 7-6-7 (Mountain Flying) — AIM Basic 2/20/25 w/ Change 1 (8/7/25) & Change 2 (1/22/26)
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