ACS — CERTIFICATION STANDARD

PA.IV.KTask K — Rough Water Takeoff and Climb (ASES, AMES)

FAA-S-ACS-6C — Area of Operation IV

Official ACS text — PA.IV.K

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 rough water takeoff and climb. Note: If a rough water condition does not exist, the applicant must be evaluated by simulating the Task.

Knowledge — The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

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

PA.IV.K.K2 Best angle of climb speed (VX) and best rate of climb speed (VY).

PA.IV.K.K3 Appropriate airplane configuration.

PA.IV.K.K4 Appropriate use of rough water takeoff and climb technique.

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

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

PA.IV.K.R2 Effects of:

PA.IV.K.R2a a. Crosswind

PA.IV.K.R2b b. Windshear

PA.IV.K.R2c c. Tailwind

PA.IV.K.R2d d. Wake turbulence

PA.IV.K.R2e e. Water surface/condition

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

PA.IV.K.R3a a. Rejected takeoff

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

PA.IV.K.R4 Collision hazards.

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

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

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

Skills — The applicant exhibits the skill to:

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

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

PA.IV.K.S3 Verify assigned/correct takeoff path.

PA.IV.K.S4 Determine wind direction with or without visible wind direction indicators.

PA.IV.K.S5 Position flight controls and configure the airplane for the existing conditions. Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C) 32

PA.IV.K.S6 Clear the area, select an appropriate takeoff path considering wind, swells, surface hazards, or vessels.

PA.IV.K.S6a a. Retract the water rudders, as appropriate

PA.IV.K.S6b b. Advance the throttle smoothly to takeoff power and confirm proper engine and flight instrument indications prior to rotation

PA.IV.K.S7 [Archived]

PA.IV.K.S8 Establish and maintain an appropriate planing attitude, directional control, and correct for porpoising, skipping, and increase in water drag.

PA.IV.K.S9 Avoid excessive water spray on the propeller(s).

PA.IV.K.S10 Lift off at minimum airspeed and accelerate to VY +10/- 5 knots before leaving ground effect.

PA.IV.K.S11 Configure the airplane after a positive rate of climb has been verified or in accordance with airplane manufacturer’s instructions.

PA.IV.K.S12 Maintain VY +10/-5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.

PA.IV.K.S13 Maintain directional control and proper wind-drift correction throughout takeoff and climb.

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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