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AI.VII.G.R2eFAA-S-ACS-25 · Nov 2023Risk management

e. Water surface/condition

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Effects of: e. Water surface/condition

Bottom line

Flat light can completely obscure features of the terrain, creating an inability to distinguish distances and closure rates. If climbout over the terrain is not easily within the seaplane’s capabilities, be certain there is sufficient room to make a gentle turn back over the water for climb.

FAA references

  1. SEA ch. 4 (p. 4-16) — FAA-H-8083-23
  2. AIM 7-6-14 (Flying in Flat Light, Brown Out Conditions, and White Out Conditions) — AIM Basic 2/20/25 w/ Change 1 (8/7/25) & Change 2 (1/22/26)
  3. RMH ch. 3 (p. 3-7) — FAA-H-8083-2A
  4. SEA ch. 6 (p. 6-8) — FAA-H-8083-23
  5. AFH ch. 9 (pp. 9-37–9-38) — FAA-H-8083-3C
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