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PA.IV.J.R5FAA-S-ACS-6C · Nov 2023Risk management

Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

Bottom line

When landing, the flat, featureless surface makes it far more difficult to gauge altitude accurately, and reflections can create confusing optical illusions.

FAA references

  1. RMH Glossary — FAA-H-8083-2A
  2. AFH ch. 13 (p. 13-18) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  3. RMH ch. 3 (p. 3-4) — FAA-H-8083-2A
  4. SEA ch. 3 (p. 3-3) — FAA-H-8083-23
  5. SEA ch. 9 (p. 9-4) — FAA-H-8083-23
  6. AIM 7-4-4 (Vortex Behavior) — AIM Basic 2/20/25 w/ Change 1 (8/7/25) & Change 2 (1/22/26)
  7. AFH ch. 16 (p. 16-18) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  8. SEA ch. 6 (p. 6-6) — FAA-H-8083-23
  9. AFH ch. 17 (p. 17-13) — FAA-H-8083-3C
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