Book Category: Airport and Ground Operations

What is an Engine Failure After Liftoff (ASEL)? An engine failure after liftoff refers to a complete loss or partial reduction of engine power shortly after takeoff. In this situation, the pilot must take immediate action to maintain aircraft control and make a decision that will result in the safest possible outcome. Land Straight Ahead […]

What is a Rejected Takeoff? A rejected (aborted) takeoff occurs when an emergency or abnormal situation results in the pilot discontinuing a takeoff while the airplane is still on the runway. Depending on the reason for the rejected takeoff, the airplane comes to an immediate stop or taxis clear of the runway. When necessary for […]

What is a Preflight Assessment? A preflight assessment is a structured evaluation of all factors that could affect the safety of a flight. It ensures the pilot, aircraft, environment, and operational pressures are all considered before departure. The PAVE checklist provides a simple structure for a preflight assessment: Related: Risk Management: The PAVE Checklist Pilot […]

What is an Emergency Approach and Landing? An emergency approach and landing is performed when an aircraft experiences a serious malfunction, such as an engine failure, that requires an immediate, unplanned landing. The pilot identifies a suitable landing area, completes the appropriate checklist, and executes a forced landing. Landing Area Selection When an airport is […]

What are After Landing Procedures? After-landing procedures involve safely decelerating, exiting the runway, and taxiing the airplane to the designated parking area. Parking and securing procedures involve properly shutting down, parking, and securing the airplane to prevent movement, damage, or unauthorized access. Land and Hold Short Operations Reference: AIM 4-3-11 Land and Hold Short Operations […]

What is a Go-Around? A go-around is the discontinuance of a landing approach to make another attempt under more favorable conditions. It is a normal maneuver and should be considered an option during any approach. A rejected landing (balked or aborted landing) is a go-around initiated after touchdown or a bounce. Reasons to Go-Around Reference: […]

What is a Forward Slip? A forward slip is a type of intentional slip that can be used during an approach to: Forward Slip Versus a Sideslip A forward slip is used to increase drag and descend. One wing is lowered while the opposite rudder is applied, causing the airplane to be flown sideways through […]

What is a Power-Off 180? The power-off 180-degree accuracy approach and landing (power-off 180) simulates an engine failure in the traffic pattern. The maneuver begins by reducing power to idle on the downwind leg and continues with a glide to a selected touchdown point using proper planning and energy management. Altitude Adjustments During Power-Off Approaches […]

What is a Soft-Field Landing? Soft-field landing procedures are used when operating on soft or rough surfaces such as grass, sand, mud, or snow. Proper technique reduces stress on the landing gear and prevents excessive deceleration. How to Perform a Soft-Field Landing Setup Approach Round Out (Flare) Touchdown After-Landing Roll Safety Considerations for Soft-Field Landings […]

What is a Short-Field Landing? Short-field landing procedures are used when operating into a runway of limited length or when obstacles restrict the approach. These landings require precise control, a stabilized approach, and an accurate touchdown to achieve the shortest landing distance. How to Perform a Short-Field Landing Setup Approach Round Out (Flare) Touchdown After-Landing […]