Soft-Field Takeoff & Climb________________________________________________

References:
1. AC 60-14 (Aviation Instructor’s Handbook)
2. FAA-H-8083-3 (Airplane Flying Handbook)
3. FAA-S-8081-1 (Private Pilot Practical Test Standards) pg 1-14
4. Pilots Operating Handbook (POH)
5. FAA Approved Airplane Flight Manual

Objective To provide the pilot with an understanding of short-field takeoffs.

Elements 1. Taxiing Technique on unpaved fields.

2. Transition onto runway.
3. Negotiating rotation.
4. Holding a/c in ground effect.
5. Climb out.
Schedule 1. Discuss Objectives 03
2. Review Material 02
3. Development 20
4. Conclusion 05

Equipment 1. Airplane Flying Handbook

2. Private/Commercial PTS
3. White board and markers
4. Model Airplane

IP’s Actions 1. Discuss lesson objectives

2. Present Lecture
3. Ask and Answer Questions

SP’s Actions 1. Participate in discussion

2. Take notes
3. Ask and respond to questions

Completion This lesson will be complete when the SP demonstrates an understanding of the elements related to
Standards Soft-Field Takeoff and Climb.

XIV. B. Forward Slip to a Landing

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Instructor’s Notes: Forward Slip to a Landing_______________________________________
INTRODUCTION:

WHAT? – A takeoff using aft elevator pressure to become airborn as soon as possible in order to accelerate in
ground effect.

WHY ? - To get the plane airborne as soon as possible to prevent the wheels from digging into the surface and to
increase airspeed without the increased drag from the wheels.

OVERVIEW - This lesson will cover the basic elements pertaining to Soft-Field Takeoff and Climb, including:
1. Taxiing Technique on unpaved fields.
2. Transition onto runway.
3. Negotiating rotation.
4. Holding a/c in ground effec.
5. Climb out.

DEVELOPMENT:

HOW ?
1. Whenever the a/c is moved along the surface of an unpaved field, concern for the nose wheel digging into
the surface should be considered. When moving along the surface, full aft yoke pressure should be utilized
in order to reduce down force on nose gear.
2. When taxiing onto the runway, no stoppage should occur. Avoid sharp turns. Transition from taxi roll to
full power w/o stopping.
3. Maintain full aft yoke pressure until aerodynamic lift occurs. One lift is sufficient for rotation, slightly
release yoke pressure as to avoid a stall.
4. Once a/c becomes airborne, forward pressure on the yoke will be necessary in order to keep the a/c in
ground effect (wingspan distance from the ground). Accelerate to Vy in ground effect before climbing
away.
5. Climb out will require relaxing yoke pressure. Pitch for Vy attitude. Climb performance will diminish upon
leaving ground effect.
COMMON ERRORS
1. Not taxiing with full aft yoke position.
2. Too sharp of a turn when taxiing onto runway.
3. Not relaxing yoke pressure when rotating inducing a stall.
4. Climbing out of ground effect prematurely.
5. Not judging the a/c height above the runway while in ground effect.

CONCLUSION

OVERVIEW
Discuss Elements to include:
1. Taxi
2. Rotation
3. Ground effect
4. Climb-out.

PRIVATE PTS:
As Stated

COMMERCIAL PTS:
Not Applicable

COMPLETION
XIV. B. Forward Slip to a Landing
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STANDARDS:
1. This lesson will be complete when student has an understanding of Soft-field takeoffs.

XIV. B. Forward Slip to a Landing

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