Task I.D
Cross-Country Flight Planning
To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with cross-country flights and VFR flight planning.
Note: Preparation, presentation, and explanation of a computer-generated flight plan is an acceptable option.
References: 14 CFR part 91; AIM; Chart Supplements; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; NOTAMs; VFR Navigation Charts
Knowledge10 elements
The applicant demonstrates understanding of:
PA.I.D.K1Route planning, including consideration of different classes and special use airspace (SUA) and selection of appropriate and available navigation/communication systems and facilities.PA.I.D.K1aa. Use of an electronic flight bag (EFB), if usedPA.I.D.K2Altitude selection accounting for terrain and obstacles, glide distance of airplane, VFR cruising altitudes, and effect of wind.PA.I.D.K3Calculating:PA.I.D.K3aa. Time, climb and descent rates, course, distance, heading, true airspeed, and groundspeedPA.I.D.K3bb. Estimated time of arrival, including conversion to universal coordinated time (UTC)PA.I.D.K3cc. Fuel requirements, including reservePA.I.D.K4Elements of a VFR flight plan.PA.I.D.K5Procedures for filing, activating, and closing a VFR flight plan.PA.I.D.K6Inflight intercept procedures.
Risk Management7 elements
The applicant is able to identify, assess, and mitigate risk associated with:
PA.I.D.R1Pilot.PA.I.D.R2Aircraft.PA.I.D.R3Environment (e.g., weather, airports, airspace, terrain, obstacles).PA.I.D.R4External pressures.PA.I.D.R5Limitations of air traffic control (ATC) services.PA.I.D.R6Fuel planning.PA.I.D.R7Use of an electronic flight bag (EFB), if used.
Skills5 elements
The applicant exhibits the skill to:
PA.I.D.S1Prepare, present, and explain a cross-country flight plan assigned by the evaluator, including a risk analysis based on real-time weather, to the first fuel stop.PA.I.D.S2Apply pertinent information from appropriate and current aeronautical charts, Chart Supplements; Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs) relative to airport, runway and taxiway closures; and other flight publications.PA.I.D.S3Create a navigation plan and simulate filing a VFR flight plan.PA.I.D.S4Recalculate fuel reserves based on a scenario provided by the evaluator.PA.I.D.S5Use an electronic flight bag (EFB), if applicable.
Overview
Study notes for Cross-Country Flight Planning 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 91; AIM; Chart Supplements; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; NOTAMs; VFR Navigation Charts