PPL Checkride Guide
← Area VIII. Basic Instrument Maneuvers

Task VIII.A

Straight-and-Level Flight

To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with flying during straight-and-level flight solely by reference to instruments.

References: FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-15, FAA-H-8083-25

Knowledge5 elements

The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

  • PA.VIII.A.K1Flight instruments as they relate to:
  • PA.VIII.A.K1aa. Instrument limitations and potential errors
  • PA.VIII.A.K1bb. Indication of the aircraft attitude
  • PA.VIII.A.K1cc. Function and operation
  • PA.VIII.A.K1dd. Proper instrument cross-check techniques
Risk Management8 elements

The applicant is able to identify, assess, and mitigate risk associated with:

  • PA.VIII.A.R1Instrument flying hazards, including failure to maintain visual flight rules (VFR), spatial disorientation, loss of control, fatigue, stress, and emergency off airport landings.
  • PA.VIII.A.R2When to seek assistance or declare an emergency in a deteriorating situation.
  • PA.VIII.A.R3Collision hazards.
  • PA.VIII.A.R4Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
  • PA.VIII.A.R5Fixation and omission.
  • PA.VIII.A.R6Instrument Interpretation.
  • PA.VIII.A.R7Control application solely by reference to instruments.
  • PA.VIII.A.R8Trimming the aircraft.
Skills2 elements

The applicant exhibits the skill to:

  • PA.VIII.A.S1Maintain straight-and-level flight using proper instrument cross-check and interpretation, and coordinated control application.
  • PA.VIII.A.S2Maintain altitude ±200 feet, heading ±20°, and airspeed ±10 knots.

Overview

Study notes for Straight-and-Level Flight are coming soon. The official ACS elements for this task are listed above — use them as your checklist while the full study guide is being written.

Key Knowledge

Content coming soon.

Common DPE Questions

Content coming soon.

References

FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-15, FAA-H-8083-25