Normal Approach and Landing Flashcards
Step 1: Weather
Obtain weather ATIS/AWOS information 12-14 NM from the airport.
Step 2: Contact
Contract Tower (Controlled Airport), or request traffic advisory 10 NM from airport.
Step 3: Checklist
Complete the “Approach and Landing” checklist 5 NM from the airport.
Step 4: Altitude
Be at the published traffic pattern altitude no later than 3 NM from the airport. Typically 1000 ft AGL.
Step 5: Entry
Plan a standard 45 degree entry on downwind at an uncontrolled airport, or follow instructions assigned by Tower.
Step 6: Downwind
When established on downwind and abeam the numbers:
- 1700 RPM
- Flaps 1 (10 deg)
- 80 KIAS
- Start descending: Look out! Nose just below the horizon, around 300 fpm rate of decent.
- Trim down
Step 7: At 45 deg
At 45 degrees from the runway (approx. 700’-800’) turn base leg.
Step 8: Base Leg
Base Leg:
- Flaps 2 (25 deg)
- Trim down
- 75 KIAS
Step 9: Turn Final
Turn Final leg to line up with runway. Altitude should be 600 feet.
Step 10: Final
On final leg:
- Flaps 3 (40 deg)
- Trim down
- 65-70 KIAS
- NEVER LOWER THAN 60 KIAS
Step 11: Aim
Set an aiming point within the first 1/3 of the runway.
Step 12: Approach
Normal approach speed is 65-70 KIAS. In windy conditions add half the gust factor.
Step 13: Stabilize
By 400’ the aircraft must be stabilized:
- Glide path
- trim
- flaps
- airspeed
- decent rate
Step 14: Maintaining Aim
Maintain your aiming point at the windshield with minimal changes in pitch and power until roundoff
Step 15: Round Out
At the round out, reduce power to idle then continue the flare (back pressure) to touchdown on the main wheels first at just above the stalling speed.
Step 16: Touchdown
Upon touchdown, hold the nose wheel off the runway as long as the stabilator remains effective to provide aerodynamic breaking as appropriate.
Step 17: Steer
Maintain directional control using rudder
Step 18: Checklist
Do not initiate after landing checklist until clear of the runway and RSA.
