IR.VI.A.K4FAA-S-ACS-8C · Nov 2023Knowledge

A stabilized approach, including energy management concepts.

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

A stabilized approach, including energy management concepts.

Bottom line

A stabilized approach is a key feature to a safe approach and landing. The stabilized approach profile means maintaining a stable approach speed, constant descent rate, constant vertical flight path angle, and the same aircraft configuration. The energy state of an airplane is the balance between airspeed, altitude, drag, and thrust.

Key numbers

Key numbers for A stabilized approach, including energy management concepts.
NumberWhat it means
Landing gear extended and landing flaps selected by 1,000 feet AGLGear and flaps
Power up by 500 feet AGL to maintain the appropriate speedPower
Final descent starts 5 miles from the runwayFinal descent

FAA references

  1. AC 120-108 ch. 4 List of Tables — AC No: 120-108A
  2. AFH ch. 5, Stall Recognition (p. 5-13) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  3. AFH ch. 16 (p. 16-18) — FAA-H-8083-3C
Members lesson

Build understanding you can use

Unlock the full lesson and continue studying this element.

  • Full teaching sections: What it is; Key points; Rules and numbers; How it is done
  • Check your understanding with answers you can reveal
  • Common mistakes paired with the FAA facts that correct them
View membership options