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AI.VII.J.R1FAA-S-ACS-25 · Nov 2023Risk management

Selection of approach path and touchdown area based on pilot capability, airplane perfo...

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Selection of approach path and touchdown area based on pilot capability, airplane performance and limitations, and available distance.

Bottom line

Over glassy smooth water, or at night without sufficient light, it is very easy, for even the most experienced pilots to misjudge altitude by 50 feet or more. Perform a normal approach, but prepare as though intending to land at an altitude well above the surface.

FAA references

  1. AIM 6-3-3 (Ditching Procedures) — AIM Basic 2/20/25 w/ Change 1 (8/7/25) & Change 2 (1/22/26)
  2. SEA ch. 6 (p. 6-6) — FAA-H-8083-23
  3. PHAK ch. 12 (p. 12-8) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
  4. SEA ch. 6 (p. 6-8) — FAA-H-8083-23
  5. RMH ch. 5 (p. 5-1) — FAA-H-8083-2A
  6. SEA ch. 6 (p. 6-3) — FAA-H-8083-23
  7. PHAK ch. 5 (p. 5-42) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
  8. AFH ch. 18 (p. 18-4) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  9. AFH ch. 12, Operational Procedures (p. 12-4) — FAA-H-8083-3C
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