CA.IV.GFAA-S-ACS-7B · Nov 2023

Confined Area Takeoff and Maximum Performance Climb (ASES, AMES)

ACS task objective

To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with confined area takeoff and maximum performance climb.

Bottom line

In some cases, the water area may be adequate but surrounding high terrain creates a confined area. If the departure path leads over high terrain, consider circling back over the water after takeoff to gain altitude.

FAA references

  1. SEA ch. 4 (p. 4-16) — FAA-H-8083-23
  2. AFH Glossary (p. G-18) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  3. SEA ch. 6 (p. 6-8) — FAA-H-8083-23
  4. AIM 7-6-7 (Mountain Flying) — AIM Basic 2/20/25 w/ Change 1 (8/7/25) & Change 2 (1/22/26)

Knowledge

Risk management

Skills

  • CA.IV.G.S1: Complete the appropriate checklist(s).
  • CA.IV.G.S2: Make radio calls as appropriate.
  • CA.IV.G.S3: Verify assigned/correct takeoff path.
  • CA.IV.G.S4: Determine wind direction with or without visible wind direction indicators.
  • CA.IV.G.S5: Position the flight controls for the existing wind, if applicable.
  • CA.IV.G.S6: Clear the area, taxi into takeoff position utilizing maximum available takeoff area, and align the airplane
  • CA.IV.G.S6a: a. Retract the water rudders, as appropriate
  • CA.IV.G.S7: Advance the throttle smoothly to takeoff power and confirm proper engine and flight instrument indications prior to rotation.
  • CA.IV.G.S8: Establish a pitch attitude that maintains the most efficient planing/lift-off attitude and correct for porpoising and skipping.
  • CA.IV.G.S9: Avoid excessive water spray on the propeller(s).
  • CA.IV.G.S10: Rotate and lift off at the recommended airspeed, and accelerate to the recommended obstacle clearance airspeed or VX.
  • CA.IV.G.S11: Establish a pitch attitude to maintain the recommended obstacle clearance airspeed or VX, ±5 knots until the obstacle is cleared or until th
  • CA.IV.G.S12: Establish a pitch attitude for VY and accelerate to VY ±5 knots after clearing the obstacle or at 50 feet above ground level (AGL) if simula
  • CA.IV.G.S13: Retract flaps, if extended, after a positive rate of climb has been verified or in accordance with airplane manufacturer’s guidance.
  • CA.IV.G.S14: Maintain VY ±5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.
  • CA.IV.G.S15: Maintain directional control and proper wind-drift correction throughout takeoff and climb.
  • CA.IV.G.S16: Comply with noise abatement procedures, as applicable.
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