ACS — CERTIFICATION STANDARD

PA.IV.ITask I — Glassy Water Takeoff and Climb (ASES, AMES)

FAA-S-ACS-6C — Area of Operation IV

Official ACS text — PA.IV.I

ACS — CERTIFICATION STANDARD

References: AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-23, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

Objective: To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with glassy water takeoff and climb. Note: If a glassy water condition does not exist, the applicant must be evaluated by simulating the Task.

Knowledge — The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.IV.I.K1 Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on takeoff and climb performance.

PA.IV.I.K2 Best angle of climb speed (VX) and best rate of climb speed (VY). Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C) 29

PA.IV.I.K3 Appropriate airplane configuration.

PA.IV.I.K4 Appropriate use of glassy water takeoff and climb technique.

Risk Management — The applicant is able to identify, assess, and mitigate risk associated with:

PA.IV.I.R1 Selection of takeoff path based on pilot capability, airplane performance and limitations, and available distance.

PA.IV.I.R2 Water surface/condition.

PA.IV.I.R3 Abnormal operations, including planning for:

PA.IV.I.R3a a. Rejected takeoff

PA.IV.I.R3b b. Potential engine failure in takeoff/climb phase of flight

PA.IV.I.R4 Collision hazards.

PA.IV.I.R5 Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

PA.IV.I.R6 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.IV.I.R7 Gear position in an amphibious airplane.

Skills — The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.IV.I.S1 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

PA.IV.I.S2 Make radio calls as appropriate.

PA.IV.I.S3 Position flight controls and configure the aircraft for the existing conditions.

PA.IV.I.S4 Clear the area, select appropriate takeoff path considering surface hazards or vessels and surface conditions:

PA.IV.I.S4a a. Retract the water rudders, as appropriate

PA.IV.I.S4b b. Advance the throttle smoothly to takeoff power and confirm proper engine and flight instrument indications prior to rotation

PA.IV.I.S5 [Archived]

PA.IV.I.S6 Establish and maintain an appropriate planing attitude, directional control, and correct for porpoising, skipping, and increase in water drag.

PA.IV.I.S7 Avoid excessive water spray on the propeller(s).

PA.IV.I.S8 Use appropriate techniques to lift seaplane from the water considering surface conditions.

PA.IV.I.S9 Establish proper attitude/airspeed and accelerate to VY +10/-5 knots during the climb.

PA.IV.I.S10 Configure the airplane after a positive rate of climb has been verified or in accordance with airplane manufacturer’s instructions.

PA.IV.I.S11 Maintain VY +10/-5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.

PA.IV.I.S12 Maintain directional control throughout takeoff and climb. Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C) 30

Reproduced from FAA-S-ACS-6C, Change 1 (November 2023). Verify against the official document before relying on it.

Is this a regulation?

No — this is a certification standard, not a regulation.

Airman Certification Standards. The ACS defines what an applicant must know, consider and do to pass a practical test. It is a certification standard, not a regulation.

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