Task V.B
Ground Reference Maneuvers
To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with ground reference maneuvering which may include a rectangular course, S-turns, and turns around a point.
Note: The evaluator selects at least one ground reference maneuver for the applicant to demonstrate.
References: 14 CFR part 61; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25
Knowledge4 elements
The applicant demonstrates understanding of:
PA.V.B.K1Purpose of ground reference maneuvers.PA.V.B.K2Effects of wind on ground track and relation to a ground reference.PA.V.B.K3Effects of bank angle and groundspeed on rate and radius of turn.PA.V.B.K4Relationship of rectangular course to airport traffic pattern.
Risk Management5 elements
The applicant is able to identify, assess, and mitigate risk associated with:
PA.V.B.R1Division of attention between aircraft control and orientation.PA.V.B.R2Collision hazards.PA.V.B.R3Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).PA.V.B.R4Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.PA.V.B.R5Uncoordinated flight.
Skills10 elements
The applicant exhibits the skill to:
PA.V.B.S1Clear the area.PA.V.B.S2Select a suitable ground reference area, line, or point as appropriate.PA.V.B.S3Plan the maneuver:PA.V.B.S3aa. Rectangular course: enter a left or right pattern, 600 to 1,000 feet above ground level (AGL) at an appropriate distance from the selected reference area, 45° to the downwind legPA.V.B.S3bb. S-turns: enter perpendicular to the selected reference line, 600 to 1,000 feet AGL at an appropriate distance from the selected reference areaPA.V.B.S3cc. Turns around a point: enter at an appropriate distance from the reference point, 600 to 1,000 feet AGL at an appropriate distance from the selected reference areaPA.V.B.S4Apply adequate wind-drift correction during straight and turning flight to maintain a constant ground track around a rectangular reference area, or to maintain a constant radius turn on each side of a selected reference line or point.PA.V.B.S5If performing S-Turns, reverse the turn directly over the selected reference line; if performing turns around a point, complete turns in either direction, as specified by the evaluator.PA.V.B.S6Divide attention between airplane control, traffic avoidance and the ground track while maintaining coordinated flight.PA.V.B.S7Maintain altitude ±100 feet; maintain airspeed ±10 knots.
Overview
Study notes for Ground Reference Maneuvers 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
14 CFR part 61; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25