What is a Short-Field Takeoff?

Short-field takeoff procedures are utilized when an airplane must be operated from an area with either a short runway or the available takeoff area is restricted by obstructions. These operations require accurate preflight planning and precise aircraft control to obtain the maximum performance from the airplane.

How to Perform a Short-Field Takeoff

Setup

1. Set the flaps as recommended by the airplane manufacturer.
2. Ensure the aircraft is approaching the correct runway by observing the signs and markings.
3. Clear the area and receive an ATC clearance if necessary.
4. Taxi into the takeoff position utilizing the maximum available takeoff area.
5. Align the airplane on the center of the runway. Verify the heading indicator is aligned correctly.
6. Check the windsock. Position the flight controls for the wind conditions.
7. Complete the before-takeoff checklist.

Takeoff Roll

1. Apply the brakes to keep the airplane stationary while advancing the throttle smoothly to takeoff power.
2. Check that all engine instruments are satisfactory (in the green) and then release the brakes.
3. Use the rudder pedals to maintain directional control. Right rudder pressure may be necessary to keep the airplane aligned with the runway centerline after applying power.
4. Verify that the airspeed indicator is operating correctly.

Liftoff

1. Liftoff at the airplane manufacturer’s recommended airspeed for a short-field takeoff. Apply back pressure more aggressively than used during a normal takeoff.
2. Establish a pitch attitude that will accelerate the airplane to and maintain V_X.

Maximum Performance Climb

1. Maintain V_X until the obstacle is cleared, or until the airplane is 50′ above the surface.
2. Retract the landing gear, if appropriate, and flaps after clear of any obstacles or as recommended by the manufacturer.
3. After clearing the obstacle, or once the airplane is 50′ above the surface in the absence of an obstacle, establish the pitch attitude that will allow the airplane to accelerate to and maintain V_Y.
4. Maintain takeoff power until reaching a safe maneuvering altitude.
5. Complete the appropriate climb checklist.

Safety Considerations for Short-Field Takeoffs

• The performance section of the AFM/POH should be used to obtain the power setting, flap setting, airspeed, and procedures.
• In some airplanes, a deviation of 5 knots from the recommended speed results in a significant reduction in climb performance.
• Some airplanes have a natural tendency to liftoff well before reaching V_X. It may be necessary to reduce pitch attitude in ground effect so that the airplane can accelerate to V_X with the wheels just clear of the runway surface.

Common Errors for Short-Field Takeoffs

Setup:

• Failure to review AFM/POH and performance charts before takeoff
• Flaps not set as recommended
• Failure to adequately clear the area before taxiing into position on the active runway
• Failure to align the airplane on the center of the runway
• Failure to position the airplane for maximum utilization of the available takeoff area
• Failure to hold brakes until full power is applied and engine instruments are checked

Takeoff Roll:

• Abrupt use of the throttle
• Failure to check engine instruments after applying takeoff power
• Failure to anticipate the airplane’s left turning tendency on initial acceleration
• Inappropriate removal of the hand from the throttle
• Applying the brakes to assist in directional control during the takeoff roll
• Fixation on the airspeed indicator

Liftoff:

• Failure to attain a proper liftoff attitude
• Premature lift-off resulting in high drag
• Continuing the takeoff roll after liftoff speed
• Dropping a wing (usually the left) immediately after liftoff due to inadequate rudder pressure and limiting the visual scan to areas directly ahead of the airplane

Maximum Performance Climb:

• Inadequate compensation for torque/P-factor resulting in a sideslip
• Failure to maintain the best angle-of-climb airspeed (V_X)
• Failure to employ the principles of attitude flying during climb-out, resulting in “chasing” the airspeed indicator
• Fixation on the airspeed indicator during the initial climb
• Premature retraction of landing gear and/or wing flaps
• Failure to use or improper use of the appropriate checklist

Airman Certification Standards for Short-Field Takeoffs

References: FAA-S-8081-29, FAA-S-ACS-6, FAA-S-ACS-7, FAA-S-ACS-25

Obstacle Clearance Speed:

• SPT and PVT: Recommended airspeed, or V_X, +10/-5 knots, until the obstacle is cleared, or 50′ AGL
• COM and CFI: Recommended airspeed, or V_X, +5 knots, until the obstacle is cleared or 50′ AGL

Climb Speed:

• SPT and PVT: Accelerate to and maintain V_Y, +10/-5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude
• COM and CFI: Accelerate to and maintain V_Y, ±5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude