CA.IV.KFAA-S-ACS-7B · Nov 2023
Rough Water Takeoff and Climb (ASES, AMES)
To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with rough water takeoff and climb. Note: If a rough water condition does not exist, the applicant must be evaluated by simulating the Task.
Bottom line
The objective in a rough water takeoff is similar to that of a rough or soft field takeoff in a landplane: to transfer the weight of the airplane to the wings as soon as possible, get airborne at a minimum airspeed, accelerate in ground effect to a safe climb speed, and climb out. In most cases an experienced seaplane pilot can safely take off in rough water, but a beginner should not attempt to take off if the waves are too high.
FAA references
- SEA ch. 4 (p. 4-16) — FAA-H-8083-23
- SEA ch. 4 (p. 4-12) — FAA-H-8083-23
Knowledge
- CA.IV.K.K1: Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on takeoff and climb performance.
- CA.IV.K.K2: Best angle of climb speed (VX) and best rate of climb speed (VY).
- CA.IV.K.K3: Appropriate airplane configuration.
- CA.IV.K.K4: Appropriate use of rough water takeoff and climb technique.
Risk management
- CA.IV.K.R1: Selection of takeoff path based on pilot capability, airplane performance and limitations, available distance, and wind.
- CA.IV.K.R2: Effects of:
- CA.IV.K.R2a: a. Crosswind
- CA.IV.K.R2b: b. Windshear
- CA.IV.K.R2c: c. Tailwind
- CA.IV.K.R2d: d. Wake turbulence
- CA.IV.K.R2e: e. Water surface/condition
- CA.IV.K.R3: Abnormal operations, including planning for:
- CA.IV.K.R3a: a. Rejected takeoff
- CA.IV.K.R3b: b. Potential engine failure in takeoff/climb phase of flight
- CA.IV.K.R4: Collision hazards.
- CA.IV.K.R5: Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).
- CA.IV.K.R6: Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
- CA.IV.K.R7: Gear position in an amphibious airplane.
Skills
- CA.IV.K.S1: Complete the appropriate checklist(s).
- CA.IV.K.S2: Make radio calls as appropriate.
- CA.IV.K.S3: Verify assigned/correct takeoff path.
- CA.IV.K.S4: Determine wind direction with or without visible wind direction indicators.
- CA.IV.K.S5: Position flight controls and configure the airplane for the existing conditions.
- CA.IV.K.S6: Clear the area, select an appropriate takeoff path considering wind, swells, surface hazards, or
- CA.IV.K.S6a: a. Retract the water rudders, as appropriate
- CA.IV.K.S6b: b. Advance the throttle smoothly to takeoff power and confirm proper engine and flight instrument indications prior to rotation
- CA.IV.K.S7: [Archived]
- CA.IV.K.S8: Establish and maintain an appropriate planing attitude, directional control, and correct for porpoising, skipping, and increase in water dra
- CA.IV.K.S9: Avoid excessive water spray on the propeller(s).
- CA.IV.K.S10: Lift off at minimum airspeed and accelerate to VY ±5 knots before leaving ground effect.
- CA.IV.K.S11: Configure the airplane after a positive rate of climb has been verified or in accordance with airplane manufacturer’s instructions.
- CA.IV.K.S12: Maintain VY ±5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.
- CA.IV.K.S13: Maintain directional control and proper wind-drift correction throughout takeoff and climb.
Build understanding you can use
Unlock the full lesson and continue studying this element.
- Full teaching sections: Task bottom line
- Check your understanding with answers you can reveal