Soft-Field Takeoff and Climb (ASEL)

FAA references

Knowledge

• PA.IV.C.K1: Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on takeoff and climb performance.
• PA.IV.C.K2: Best angle of climb speed (VX) and best rate of climb speed (VY).
• PA.IV.C.K3: Appropriate airplane configuration.
• PA.IV.C.K4: Ground effect.
• PA.IV.C.K5: Importance of weight transfer from wheels to wings.
• PA.IV.C.K6: Left turning tendencies.

Risk management

• PA.IV.C.R1: Selection of runway based on pilot capability, airplane performance and limitations, available distance, and wind.
• PA.IV.C.R2: Effects of:
• PA.IV.C.R2a: a. Crosswind
• PA.IV.C.R2b: b. Windshear
• PA.IV.C.R2c: c. Tailwind
• PA.IV.C.R2d: d. Wake turbulence
• PA.IV.C.R2e: e. Takeoff surface/condition
• PA.IV.C.R3: Abnormal operations, including planning for:
• PA.IV.C.R3a: a. Rejected takeoff
• PA.IV.C.R3b: b. Potential engine failure in takeoff/climb phase of flight
• PA.IV.C.R4: Collision hazards.
• PA.IV.C.R5: Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).
• PA.IV.C.R6: Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

Skills

• PA.IV.C.S1: Complete the appropriate checklist(s).
• PA.IV.C.S2: Make radio calls as appropriate.
• PA.IV.C.S3: Verify assigned/correct runway.
• PA.IV.C.S4: Determine wind direction with or without visible wind direction indicators.
• PA.IV.C.S5: Position the flight controls for the existing wind, if applicable.
• PA.IV.C.S6: Clear the area, maintain necessary flight control inputs, taxi into takeoff position and align the airplane on the runway centerline without
• PA.IV.C.S7: Confirm takeoff power and proper engine and flight instrument indications.
• PA.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.
• PA.IV.C.S9: Lift off at the lowest possible airspeed and remain in ground effect while accelerating to VX or VY, as appropriate.
• PA.IV.C.S10: Establish a pitch attitude for VX or VY, as appropriate, and maintain selected airspeed +10/-5 knots during the climb.
• PA.IV.C.S11: Configure the airplane after a positive rate of climb has been verified or in accordance with airplane manufacturer’s instructions.
• PA.IV.C.S12: Maintain VX or VY, as appropriate, +10/-5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.
• PA.IV.C.S13: Maintain directional control and proper wind-drift correction throughout takeoff and climb.
• PA.IV.C.S14: Comply with noise abatement procedures, as applicable.