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

Task IV.E

Short-Field Takeoff and Maximum Performance Climb

ASELAMEL

To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with short-field takeoff, maximum performance climb operations, and rejected takeoff procedures.

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

Knowledge3 elements

The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

  • PA.IV.E.K1Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on takeoff and climb performance.
  • PA.IV.E.K2Best angle of climb speed (VX) and best rate of climb speed (VY).
  • PA.IV.E.K3Appropriate airplane configuration.
Risk Management13 elements

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

  • PA.IV.E.R1Selection of runway based on pilot capability, airplane performance and limitations, available distance, and wind.
  • PA.IV.E.R2Effects of:
  • PA.IV.E.R2aa. Crosswind
  • PA.IV.E.R2bb. Windshear
  • PA.IV.E.R2cc. Tailwind
  • PA.IV.E.R2dd. Wake turbulence
  • PA.IV.E.R2ee. Takeoff surface/condition
  • PA.IV.E.R3Abnormal operations, including planning for:
  • PA.IV.E.R3aa. Rejected takeoff
  • PA.IV.E.R3bb. Potential engine failure in takeoff/climb phase of flight
  • PA.IV.E.R4Collision hazards.
  • PA.IV.E.R5Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).
  • PA.IV.E.R6Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
Skills15 elements

The applicant exhibits the skill to:

  • PA.IV.E.S1Complete the appropriate checklist(s).
  • PA.IV.E.S2Make radio calls as appropriate.
  • PA.IV.E.S3Verify assigned/correct runway.
  • PA.IV.E.S4Determine wind direction with or without visible wind direction indicators.
  • PA.IV.E.S5Position the flight controls for the existing wind, if applicable.
  • PA.IV.E.S6Clear the area, taxi into takeoff position, and align the airplane on the runway centerline utilizing maximum available takeoff area.
  • PA.IV.E.S7Apply brakes while setting engine power to achieve maximum performance.
  • PA.IV.E.S8Confirm takeoff power prior to brake release and verify proper engine and flight instrument indications prior to rotation.
  • PA.IV.E.S9Rotate and lift off at the recommended airspeed and accelerate to the recommended obstacle clearance airspeed or VX, +10/-5 knots.
  • PA.IV.E.S10Establish a pitch attitude to maintain the recommended obstacle clearance airspeed or VX, +10/-5 knots until the obstacle is cleared or until the airplane is 50 feet above the surface.
  • PA.IV.E.S11Establish a pitch attitude for VY and accelerate to VY +10/-5 knots after clearing the obstacle or at 50 feet AGL if simulating an obstacle.
  • PA.IV.E.S12Configure the airplane in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidance after a positive rate of climb has been verified.
  • PA.IV.E.S13Maintain VY +10/-5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.
  • PA.IV.E.S14Maintain directional control and proper wind-drift correction throughout takeoff and climb.
  • PA.IV.E.S15Comply with noise abatement procedures, as applicable.

Overview

Study notes for Short-Field Takeoff and Maximum Performance Climb 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-8083-25; POH/AFM