PPL Checkride Guide
← Area IV. Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds

Task IV.N

Go-Around/Rejected Landing

To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with go-around/rejected landing with emphasis on factors that contribute to landing conditions that may require a go-around.

References: AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-23, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

Chair fly this task

Quick Review

Tolerances per FAA-S-ACS-6C (ASEL).

Technique Notes

Comms come LAST. Fly the go-around first (power, pitch, configuration), and only call the tower once the airplane is climbing away. Nobody on frequency can help fly the airplane, and the radio call can wait several seconds; the descent toward the runway can't.

Flow

  • The decision is the maneuver: a bad approach doesn't get salvaged, it gets flown again. Deciding early keeps everything else easy.
  • Simultaneously: full power with carb heat off (yes, off: it was on for the low-power approach, but hot induction air is less dense and robs power right when all of it is needed), and pitch to stop the descent, then to the climb attitude.
  • Retract the drag flaps promptly, then bring the rest up in increments once there's a positive rate; dumping all the flaps at once near the ground can cause a sink.
  • Expect a strong pitch-up with full power against landing trim: hold forward pressure, then re-trim.
  • Offset to the side of the runway as appropriate to keep any conflicting traffic in sight.
  • Then make the radio call.

Official ACS elementsreference

Knowledge3 elements

The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

  • PA.IV.N.K1A stabilized approach, including energy management concepts.
  • PA.IV.N.K2Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind and density altitude, on a go-around or rejected landing.
  • PA.IV.N.K3Wind correction techniques on takeoff/departure and approach/landing.
Risk Management9 elements

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

  • PA.IV.N.R1Delayed recognition of the need for a go-around/rejected landing.
  • PA.IV.N.R2Delayed performance of a go-around at low altitude.
  • PA.IV.N.R3Power application.
  • PA.IV.N.R4Configuring the airplane.
  • PA.IV.N.R5Collision hazards.
  • PA.IV.N.R6Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).
  • PA.IV.N.R7Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
  • PA.IV.N.R8Runway incursion.
  • PA.IV.N.R9Managing a go-around/rejected landing after accepting a LAHSO clearance.
Skills9 elements

The applicant exhibits the skill to:

  • PA.IV.N.S1Complete the appropriate checklist(s).
  • PA.IV.N.S2Make radio calls as appropriate.
  • PA.IV.N.S3Make a timely decision to discontinue the approach to landing.
  • PA.IV.N.S4Apply takeoff power immediately and transition to climb pitch attitude for VX or VY as appropriate +10/-5 knots.
  • PA.IV.N.S5Configure the airplane after a positive rate of climb has been verified or in accordance with airplane manufacturer’s instructions.
  • PA.IV.N.S6Maneuver to the side of the runway/landing area when necessary to clear and avoid conflicting traffic.
  • PA.IV.N.S7Maintain VY +10/-5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.
  • PA.IV.N.S8Maintain directional control and proper wind-drift correction throughout the climb.
  • PA.IV.N.S9Use runway incursion avoidance procedures, if applicable.