CA.IV.CFAA-S-ACS-7B · Nov 2023

Soft-Field Takeoff and Climb (ASEL)

ACS task objective

To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with soft-field takeoff, climb operations, and rejected takeoff procedures.

Bottom line

Ground effect is a factor in every landing and every takeoff in fixed-wing airplanes. Due to the reduced drag in ground effect, the aircraft may seem capable of takeoff well below the recommended speed.

FAA references

  1. AFH ch. 9 (p. 9-12) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  2. PHAK ch. 5 (p. 5-12) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
  3. PHAK ch. 11 (p. 11-12) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)

Knowledge

Risk management

Skills

  • CA.IV.C.S1: Complete the appropriate checklist(s).
  • CA.IV.C.S2: Make radio calls as appropriate.
  • CA.IV.C.S3: Verify assigned/correct runway.
  • CA.IV.C.S4: Determine wind direction with or without visible wind direction indicators.
  • CA.IV.C.S5: Position the flight controls for the existing wind, if applicable.
  • CA.IV.C.S6: Clear the area, maintain necessary flight control inputs, taxi into takeoff position and align the airplane on the runway centerline without
  • CA.IV.C.S7: Confirm takeoff power and proper engine and flight instrument indications.
  • CA.IV.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.
  • CA.IV.C.S9: Lift off at the lowest possible airspeed and remain in ground effect while accelerating to VX or VY, as appropriate.
  • CA.IV.C.S10: Establish a pitch attitude for VX or VY, as appropriate, and maintain selected airspeed ±5 knots during the climb.
  • CA.IV.C.S11: Configure the airplane after a positive rate of climb has been verified or in accordance with airplane manufacturer’s instructions.
  • CA.IV.C.S12: Maintain VX or VY, as appropriate, ±5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.
  • CA.IV.C.S13: Maintain directional control and proper wind-drift correction throughout takeoff and climb.
  • CA.IV.C.S14: Comply with noise abatement procedures, as applicable.
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