Objective:

Compute aircraft performance and runway length, according to conditions, required to ensure a safe takeoff and climb from a short runway.

Elements:

1. Review wind conditions and takeoff distance clearing 50Ft object.
2. Review takeoff hazards including windshear and wake turbulence.
3. Set the flaps as recommended in POH for conditions.
4. Proform Pre-Takeoff brief and prepare for possible engine failure.
5. Clear the area, taxi to position and align the airplane using all available runway.
6. Use proper positioning of flight controls according to wind conditions.
7. While holding breaks, advance throttle smoothly to takeoff power then release breaks.
8. Maintain directional control during acceleration (P-Factor and X-wind).
9. Rotate and climb at Vx, +10/-0 knots to clear 50ft object.
10. After 50ft object is cleared, accelerate to Vy, +10/-5 knots, during the climb.
11. Maintain crosswind correction to maintain groundtrack during climb.
12. Retract the flaps and landing gear, if retractable, after a positive rate of climb is established.
13. Maintain takeoff power to a safe maneuvering altitude.
14. Comply with noise abatement procedures if applicable.
15. Complete the appropriate checklist.

Common Errors:

1. Improper initial positioning of the flight controls or wing flaps.
2. Not clearing the area before takeoff.
3. Not using all available runway.
4. Improper power application and use of brakes.
5. Inappropriate removal of hand from throttle.
6. Poor directional control.
7. Late liftoff using more runway than required.
8. Rotating to early which increases drag and using more runway than required.
9. Failure to establish and maintain proper climb configuration and airspeed.
10. Drift during climb.

References:

• FAA Private Pilot PTS
• Airplane Flying Handbook, pp 5-8 – 5-9

Notes:

Hand on throttle unless trimming until safe altitude.
Leave gear down until no useable runway remaining.
Check POH for flaps or gear retraction first.
Differences between short field no obstacle, obstacle clearance, and short with an obstacle.
Density Altitude Makes All Fields Short.

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