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.
