PA.IX.A — Task A — Emergency Descent

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

Objective: To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with emergency descent. Note: See Appendix 2: Safety of Flight.

Knowledge — The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.IX.A.K1 Situations that would require an emergency descent (e.g., depressurization, smoke, or engine fire).

PA.IX.A.K2 Immediate action items and emergency procedures.

PA.IX.A.K3 Airspeed, including airspeed limitations.

PA.IX.A.K4 Aircraft performance and limitations.

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

PA.IX.A.R1 Altitude, wind, terrain, obstructions, gliding distance, and available landing distance considerations.

PA.IX.A.R2 Collision hazards.

PA.IX.A.R3 Configuring the airplane.

PA.IX.A.R4 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

Skills — The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.IX.A.S1 Clear the area.

PA.IX.A.S2 Establish and maintain the appropriate airspeed and configuration appropriate to the scenario specified by the evaluator and as covered in Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH)/Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) for the emergency descent.

PA.IX.A.S3 Maintain orientation, divide attention appropriately, and plan and execute a smooth recovery.

PA.IX.A.S4 Use bank angle between 30° and 45° to maintain positive load factors during the descent.

PA.IX.A.S5 Maintain appropriate airspeed +0/-10 knots, and level off at a specified altitude ±100 feet.

PA.IX.A.S6 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

PA.IX.A.S7 Make radio calls as appropriate.

PA.IX.A.S8 Use single-pilot resource management (SRM) or crew resource management (CRM), as appropriate.