Soft-Field Takeoff and Climb

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.

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. Crosswind
• PA.IV.C.R2bb. Windshear
• PA.IV.C.R2cc. Tailwind
• PA.IV.C.R2dd. Wake turbulence
• PA.IV.C.R2ee. Takeoff surface/condition
• PA.IV.C.R3Abnormal operations, including planning for:
• PA.IV.C.R3aa. Rejected takeoff
• PA.IV.C.R3bb. Potential engine failure in takeoff/climb phase of flight
• PA.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.

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.