Aircraft Performance

Question 1

A pilot and two passengers landed on a 2,100 foot east-west gravel strip with an elevation of 1,800 feet. The temperature is warmer than expected and after computing the density altitude it is determined the takeoff distance over a 50 ft obstacle is 1,980 ft. The airplane is 75 pounds under gross weight.

What would be the best choice?

a) takeoff to the west because the headwind will give the extra climb-out time needed.
b) try a takeoff without the passengers to make sure the climb is accurate.
c) wait until the temperature decreases, and recalculate the takeoff performance.

Answer 1

Answer is C
wait until the temperature decreases, and recalculate the takeoff performance.

The safest and most practical would be to wait until the temp decreases and recalculate takeoff performance. The takeoff distance is 1,980 ft and the runway is 2,100 ft leaving a margin for error of only 120 ft. In addition, the rough runway surface, warm temperature, increase the density altitude, the need to get over the 50 ft obstacle and only 75 pounds under gross are all risk factors to be considered.