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

Task IV.L

Rough Water Approach and Landing

ASESAMES

To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with rough water approach and landing.

Note: If a rough water condition does not exist, the applicant must be evaluated by simulating the Task.

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

Knowledge5 elements

The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

  • PA.IV.L.K1A stabilized approach, including energy management concepts.
  • PA.IV.L.K2Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on approach and landing performance.
  • PA.IV.L.K3Wind correction techniques on approach and landing.
  • PA.IV.L.K4When and why rough water techniques are used.
  • PA.IV.L.K5How to perform a proper rough water approach and landing.
Risk Management12 elements

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

  • PA.IV.L.R1Selection of approach path and touchdown area based on pilot capability, airplane performance and limitations, available distance, and wind.
  • PA.IV.L.R2Effects of:
  • PA.IV.L.R2aa. Crosswind
  • PA.IV.L.R2bb. Windshear
  • PA.IV.L.R2cc. Tailwind
  • PA.IV.L.R2dd. Wake turbulence
  • PA.IV.L.R2ee. Water surface/condition
  • PA.IV.L.R3Planning for a go-around and rejected landing.
  • PA.IV.L.R4Collision hazards.
  • PA.IV.L.R5Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).
  • PA.IV.L.R6Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
  • PA.IV.L.R7Gear position in an amphibious airplane.
Skills10 elements

The applicant exhibits the skill to:

  • PA.IV.L.S1Complete the appropriate checklist(s).
  • PA.IV.L.S2Make radio calls as appropriate.
  • PA.IV.L.S3Ensure the airplane is aligned with the correct/assigned waterway.
  • PA.IV.L.S4Scan the landing area for traffic and obstructions.
  • PA.IV.L.S5Select and aim for a suitable touchdown point considering the wind conditions, landing surface, and obstructions.
  • PA.IV.L.S6Establish the recommended approach and landing configuration, airspeed, and trim, and adjust pitch attitude and power as required to maintain a stabilized approach.
  • PA.IV.L.S7Maintain manufacturer’s published approach airspeed or in its absence not more than 1.3 VSO, +10/-5 knots with gust factor applied.
  • PA.IV.L.S8Maintain directional control and appropriate crosswind correction throughout the approach and landing.
  • PA.IV.L.S9Make smooth, timely, and correct power and control adjustments to maintain proper pitch attitude and rate of descent to touchdown.
  • PA.IV.L.S10Contact the water in a proper pitch attitude, considering the type of rough water.

Overview

Study notes for Rough Water Approach and Landing 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

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