Short Field TO & Ldg

Work in Progress

Developing the student’s decision-making processes in relation to operating from runways of minimal length is an important instructional challenge.  This exercise introduces the techniques required to safely and legally conduct take-offs and landings where runway length is limited, using the performance data provided in the Flight Manual.

A short (or minimal) field is defined as one where the available runway length is less than normally expected for the conditions, but still sufficient for take-off and/or landing. It is not one that is too short to operate from, nor one where the available distance is unknown.

When the runway distance is limited, the instructor should guide the student to consult the Flight Manual to confirm that performance under the prevailing conditions provides sufficient margins. If any doubt exists, the Flight Manual figures are to be taken as authoritative.  Manufacturer’s performance data should be adjusted for surface condition, slope, and density altitude, using correction factors as applicable.

During training, the student should understand that the principles of performance planning apply equally to gyroplanes as to aeroplanes, but that take-off and landing techniques differ due to rotor system characteristics.