Task IV.C
Soft-Field Takeoff and Climb
ASEL
To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with soft-field takeoff, climb operations, and rejected takeoff procedures.
References: AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM
Chair fly this task
Quick Review
Keep weight off the nosewheel throughout; lift off at the lowest safe speed and accelerate in ground effect before climbing.
Tolerances per FAA-S-ACS-6C (ASEL).
Technique Notes
The whole maneuver is about protecting the nosewheel and never letting the airplane bog down:
- Flaps per the POH before taking the surface. Yoke full aft from the moment the airplane is moving on the soft surface, and keep it moving; stopping risks getting stuck.
- Roll onto the runway without stopping, aligning with a continuous turn, and smoothly apply full power with the yoke held aft. The nosewheel comes off early, which is the goal, then relax just enough back pressure to hold that nose-high attitude without dragging the tail.
- The mains lift off at the lowest possible airspeed. As soon as they do, gently lower the pitch to level off in ground effect.
- Accelerate in ground effect to Vx (obstacle ahead) or Vy, and only then climb out. Climbing early at liftoff speed, out of ground effect, risks settling back onto the surface.
- Leave the flaps alone until clear of obstacles and at a safe altitude, then retract.
Official ACS elementsreference
Knowledge6 elements
The applicant demonstrates understanding of:
PA.IV.C.K1Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on takeoff and climb performance.PA.IV.C.K2Best angle of climb speed (VX) and best rate of climb speed (VY).PA.IV.C.K3Appropriate airplane configuration.PA.IV.C.K4Ground effect.PA.IV.C.K5Importance of weight transfer from wheels to wings.PA.IV.C.K6Left turning tendencies.
Risk Management13 elements
The applicant is able to identify, assess, and mitigate risk associated with:
PA.IV.C.R1Selection of runway based on pilot capability, airplane performance and limitations, available distance, and wind.PA.IV.C.R2Effects of:PA.IV.C.R2aa. CrosswindPA.IV.C.R2bb. WindshearPA.IV.C.R2cc. TailwindPA.IV.C.R2dd. Wake turbulencePA.IV.C.R2ee. Takeoff surface/conditionPA.IV.C.R3Abnormal operations, including planning for:PA.IV.C.R3aa. Rejected takeoffPA.IV.C.R3bb. Potential engine failure in takeoff/climb phase of flightPA.IV.C.R4Collision hazards.PA.IV.C.R5Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).PA.IV.C.R6Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
Skills14 elements
The applicant exhibits the skill to:
PA.IV.C.S1Complete the appropriate checklist(s).PA.IV.C.S2Make radio calls as appropriate.PA.IV.C.S3Verify assigned/correct runway.PA.IV.C.S4Determine wind direction with or without visible wind direction indicators.PA.IV.C.S5Position the flight controls for the existing wind, if applicable.PA.IV.C.S6Clear the area, maintain necessary flight control inputs, taxi into takeoff position and align the airplane on the runway centerline without stopping, while advancing the throttle smoothly to takeoff power.PA.IV.C.S7Confirm takeoff power and proper engine and flight instrument indications.PA.IV.C.S8Establish and maintain a pitch attitude that transfers the weight of the airplane from the wheels to the wings as rapidly as possible.PA.IV.C.S9Lift off at the lowest possible airspeed and remain in ground effect while accelerating to VX or VY, as appropriate.PA.IV.C.S10Establish a pitch attitude for VX or VY, as appropriate, and maintain selected airspeed +10/-5 knots during the climb.PA.IV.C.S11Configure the airplane after a positive rate of climb has been verified or in accordance with airplane manufacturer’s instructions.PA.IV.C.S12Maintain VX or VY, as appropriate, +10/-5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.PA.IV.C.S13Maintain directional control and proper wind-drift correction throughout takeoff and climb.PA.IV.C.S14Comply with noise abatement procedures, as applicable.