SHORT FIELD TAKE-OFF

Description

Maximum performance take-off where the takeoff area is short or restricted by obstructions.

Objective

To teach techniques necessary for a short field take-off to avoid obstructions or obtain maximum performance.

Elements

·         Clear the area

·         Choose forced landing area

·         Configure aircraft: flaps as specified (C172RG: 10º), cowl flaps open, propeller to full

·         Select outside references: vanishing point on runway

·         Taxi onto runway centerline

·         Apply full brakes

·         Smoothly apply full power, upon engine peak, release brakes

·         Anticipate need for right rudder pressure

·         Check engine instruments (in green)

·         Attitude slightly tail-low

·         At V_R for short field (C172RG: 55 KIAS), apply back pressure to lift nose wheel

·         Pitch for steeper than normal climb attitude, climb at V_X (gear out) (C172RG: 63 KIAS)

·         Clear the real or simulated obstacle (if applicable)

·         Adjust to normal climb V_Y (gear out) (C172RG: 84 KIAS)

·         Gear up upon positive rate of climb, safe airspeed, no useable runway and clear of obstacle

·         After 500’ AGL, flaps up

·         Maintain ball centered

·         Look for traffic

 

Note V_X and V_Y: 5 knots off can have a big difference. Emphasize using the very beginning of the runway. On lift-off, rotate firmly. Insure gear and flaps remain extended until clear of obstacle.

Common Errors

·         Failure to adequately clear the area

·         Failure to utilize all available runway/takeoff area

·         Failure to have the airplane properly trimmed prior to takeoff

·         Premature lift-off resulting in high drag

·         Holding the airplane on the ground unnecessarily with excessive forward-elevator pressure

·         Inadequate rotation resulting in excessive speed after lift-off

·         Inability to attain/maintain best angle-of-climb airspeed

·         Fixation on the airspeed indicator during initial climb

·         Premature retraction of landing gear and/or wing flaps

References

FAA-H-8083-3A Airplane Flying Handbook p. 5-8