Lesson Overview

To understand the procedures and requirements for a normal and crosswind takeoff and climb. The student should be able to competently maintain control of the airplane and correctly takeoff with or without wind as described in the ACS/PTS.

References : Airplane Flying Handbook (FAA-H-8083-3C, page(s) 5-6)

Key Elements

  1. Takeoff into the Wind

  2. Left Turning Tendency

  3. Rotation Speed (VR - {airspeed-v-r} knots)
Elements

  1. Normal Takeoff

  2. Crosswind Takeoff
Schedule

  1. Discuss Objectives

  2. Review material

  3. Development

  4. Conclusion
Equipment

  1. White board and markers

  2. References
IP Actions

  1. Discuss lesson objectives

  2. Present Lecture

  3. Ask and Answer Questions

  4. Assign homework
SP Actions

  1. Participate in discussion

  2. Take notes

  3. Ask and respond to questions
Completion Standards

The lesson is complete when the student is able to walk through a normal or crosswind takeoff on the ground, providing knowledge of common errors regarding these procedures. The student also should be able to confidently demonstrate a takeoff with or without a crosswind.

Instructor Notes

Attention

The takeoff is one of the most basic and exciting parts of flying Different situations regarding wind and weather, runway size and length, and the runway surface will provide different challenges for every flight.
Overview

Review Objectives and Elements/Key ideas
What

A normal takeoff is one in which the airplane is headed into the wind, or the wind is very light. Also, the takeoff surface is firm, and of sufficient length to permit the airplane to gradually accelerate to normal lift-off and climb-out speed, and there are no obstructions along the takeoff path. While it is preferable to takeoff into the wind, there will be many instances when circumstances dictate otherwise. A crosswind takeoff is a normal takeoff with the only exception being that the airplane is no longer headed directly into the wind.
Why

It is essential to every flight you will ever take! A smooth, skillful and safe takeoff is a key element of pilot proficiency. It is essential for the pilot to be able to perform a safe and smooth takeoff and have the ability to control the aircraft in varying conditions, starting with the basics. You need to be on your game while maneuvering close to the ground - takeoffs are, by definition, performed at and near the ground.

Lesson Details

You can’t have flight without a takeoff (and, eventually a landing too, but that comes later). This section talks about normal and crosswind takeoffs.

Normal Takeoffs

A normal takeoff is defined as one where there are no extenuating circumstances or additional complications. This generally means that the airplane is headed into the wind, or where the wind is very light. It is assumed that the takeoff surface is firm, of sufficient length to permit the airplane to gradually accelerate to a normal lift-off and climb-out speed, and there are no obstructions on the takeoff path.

It is preferred to take off into the wind as it gives the aircraft some airspeed even as it is standing still on the ground. This reduces the ground roll, which reduces takeoff distance and incidentally wear and tear on the aircraft.

During all aircraft takeoff (and eventually, landing) operations checklists should be used consistently. Learning early checklist habits is crucial.

Takeoff Roll

The aircraft is taxied onto the runway, ensuring that the before-takeoff checklist is complete prior to taking the runway. BEFORE taxiing onto the runway be sure to adequately clear the area and verify there are no hazards to entering the runway (i.e. aircraft on final, etc.).

Once on the runway align the aircraft with the intended takeoff direction. Confirm this by checking that the number on the runway, the indication on the compass, and the setting on the DG all match. Ensure that the nose wheel (if tricycle gear aircraft) is centered, and that the aircraft is on the centerline. Release the brakes, and smoothly advance the power to takeoff power.

The visual cues for maintaining the centerline vary from person to person, and aircraft to aircraft. The instructor should help the student establish the correct sight cues for each person/aircraft combination.

Expect the aircraft to yaw left upon application of takeoff power, to yaw again upon rotation, and be ready to counter with right rudder. Rudder is used to maintain the centerline and aileron input is used for crosswind corrections. Abrupt application of power can cause sudden yawing, and should be avoided. Once moving forward make sure the pilot’s feet are on the rudder pedals, and off the brakes.

Common Errors

  • Failure to use checklists properly

  • Failure to use runway incursion avoidance techniques

  • Failure to position and use controls properly

As the aircraft gains speed check that the AS indicator is "alive," and that all gauges are GREEN. Directional control continues to be maintained with quick but smooth rudder inputs, not brakes. The nose of the aircraft must stay pointed down the centerline of the runway. As speed increases increased resistance should be felt in the controls.

Lift-Off

As the aircraft reaches Vr gently pull back on the elevator control to initiate a nose high attitude. Generally aim for about 10° nose up attitude. It is at this point in "feeling" the plane that all flight controls should be effective. Wings are kept level (in non-crosswind conditions) with the ailerons. The aircraft must not be forced into the air before it is ready to fly. The angle of attack may be too extreme, and the aircraft may settle back to the runway or even stall.

Common Errors

  • Forcing the aircraft into the air prematurely

  • Failing to maintain rudder pressure to keep the aircraft coordinated once airborne

The runway will begin to disappear as the nose pitches up. Continue to maintain runway centerline as well as the pitch and bank using outside cues and instrument indications.

After rotation the initial climb the aircraft should be pitched for Vy. This is the speed at which the aircraft will gain the most altitude in the shortest period of time. This attitude should be demonstrated by the instructor and memorized by the student, but it is normally a pitch attitude of about 10°.

Common Errors

  • Failure to maintain Vy and chasing airspeed due to not setting the proper pitch attitude

  • Failure to avoid a side slip due to improperly positioning the controls

  • Over or under rotating during liftoff

Maintain a good scan of both outside visual cues to maintain the proper attitude and bank. Don’t focus on instruments at this point in the lift-off. Since power is set to max takeoff power, airspeed is maintained by modulating the pitch. As the climb progresses it is important to maintain the extended centerline of the runway to avoid obstructions and other aircraft (particularly if there is a parallel runway).

Use a climb checklist once a stable climb is established. At a safe altitude (about 500 feet AGL is good) use the checklist in the aircraft’s POH/AFM, but one example checklist might look like :

  1. Speed – 90 knots

  2. Fuel Pump – Off

  3. Flaps - Up

  4. Gauges – Green

  5. Lights – Off

Common Errors

  • Improper use of checklists. They should be used at a safe altitude, and can be delayed if things are busy in the plane. But must not be neglected.

Crosswind Takeoffs

The basic steps of a crosswind takeoff are much the same as with a normal takeoff. However, some additional steps and techniques must be added to the normal takeoff to manage the crosswind.

Takeoff Roll

If a crosswind is indicated (via the wind sock, ATIS, or other direction indicators) FULL aileron should be held INTO the crosswind as the roll is started. This raises the aileron on the upwind wing to impose a downward force on the wing counteracting the lifting force of the crosswind, and preventing the wing from raising. With the aileron into the wind the rudder should be used to keep the takeoff path straight.

As the aircraft gains speed the crosswind becomes more of a relative headwind and the full aileron pressure into the wind should gradually be reduced, though some aileron pressure will need to be maintained. Don’t take it all out!

Take care to not use excessive aileron inputs in the latter stage of the take off roll as it can result in an unexpected steep bank into the wind. Instead slowly reduce aileron pressure as the crosswind becomes more of a relative headwind.

Common Errors

  • Premature liftoff which can cause "side skipping" resulting in high side pressures on the landing gear

Lift-Off

In a strong crosswind keep the main gear on the ground longer to ensure a smooth but positive departure from the surface. This will reduce the chance of "side skipping" during the takeoff. This means rotating somewhat above Vr to provide that extra bit of positive liftoff.

The aileron input can result in one main gear wheel lifting off first, with the other coming up shortly afterward. This is preferred to "side skipping." Once the aircraft leaves the ground aileron pressure should be maintained to adhere to the runway extended centerline. Pitch to approximately 10° as in a normal takeoff and pitch for Vy.

Continue to side slip into the wind until a positive rate of climb is established, then turn into the wind to compensate for the crosswind and level the wings (i.e. fly in a crab).

Common Errors

  • Maintaining a proper climb attitude, power setting, or airspeed (Vy)

  • Failing to manage drift correction after lift off

  • Focusing on the instruments to much

Use a climb checklist once a stable climb is established. At a safe altitude (about 500 feet AGL is good) use the checklist in the aircraft’s POH/AFM, but one example checklist might look like :

  1. Speed – 90 knots

  2. Fuel Pump – Off

  3. Flaps - Up

  4. Gauges – Green

  5. Lights – Off

Once the climb to altitude is completed the takeoff maneuver is complete, and the aircraft can transition into cruise flight (the subject of another lesson).

Additional Notes

As additional teaching suggestions, there are actions that might be taken during the first few lessons where normal takeoffs are taught. It is suggested that the instructor stress the sight picture, both over the nose and with respect to the wingtips and the horizon. Attempt to help the student lock that picture in, then give them a chance to exercise using that picture to maintain the pitch needed for the desired climb airspeed.

One way to help reinforce this is to over the airspeed indicator, instruct them to pitch down to get a better look over the nose for traffic, and then have them re-establish the climb airspeed by visual cues alone. Once done, uncover the airspeed to see how close they came.

This will additionally reinforce the idea that we fly by pitch, and not by chasing the airspeed needle on the panel. Use this exercise to illustrate the lag between performance and the actual indication which is observed on the panel instrument.

Common Errors

Normal Takeoff and Climb

  • Improper runway incursion avoidance procedures

  • Improper use of controls during a normal or crosswind takeoff

  • Inappropriate lift off procedures

  • Improper climb attitude, power setting, and airspeed (VY)

  • Improper use of checklist

Conclusion

The lesson may have seemed technical or overbearing, but takeoffs are enjoyable. Not every takeoff will be the same and therefore adjustments will have to be made. A strong understanding of what is involved in a normal and crosswind takeoff is essential to every flight.

ACS Requirements

To determine that the applicant:

  1. Exhibits instructional knowledge of the elements of a normal and crosswind takeoff and climb by describing:

    1. Procedures before taxiing onto the runway or takeoff area to ensure runway incursion avoidance. Verify ATC clearance/no aircraft on final at non-towered airports before entering the runway, and ensure correct takeoff runway positioning of the airplane with consideration for other aircraft, surface conditions, and wind.

    2. Normal and crosswind takeoff and lift-off procedures.

    3. Difference between a normal and a glassy-water takeoff (ASES).

    4. Proper climb attitude, power setting, and airspeed (Vy).

    5. Proper use of checklist.

  2. Exhibits instructional knowledge of common errors related to a normal and crosswind takeoff and climb by describing:

    1. Improper runway incursion avoidance procedures.

    2. Improper use of controls during a normal and crosswind takeoff.

    3. Inappropriate lift-off procedures.

    4. Improper initial climb attitude, power setting, and airspeed (Vy).

    5. Improper use of checklist.

  3. Demonstrates and simultaneously explains a normal or a crosswind takeoff and climb from an instructional standpoint.

  4. Analyzes and corrects simulated common errors related to a normal or a crosswind takeoff and climb.

Private Pilot ACS Skills Standards

  1. Complete the appropriate checklist.

  2. Make radio calls as appropriate.

  3. Verify assigned/correct runway.

  4. Ascertain wind direction with or without visible wind direction indicators.

  5. Position the flight controls for the existing wind conditions.

  6. Clear the area; taxi into takeoff position and align the airplane on the runway centerline (ASEL, AMEL).

  7. Confirm takeoff power and proper engine and flight instrument indications prior to rotation (ASEL, AMEL

  8. Rotate and lift off at the recommended airspeed and accelerate to VY.

  9. Establish pitch attitude to maintain the manufacturer’s recommended speed, or VY +10/-5 knots.

  10. Retract the landing gear and flaps in accordance with manufacturer’s guidance.

  11. Maintain VY +10/-5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude

  12. Maintain directional control and proper wind drift correction throughout takeoff and climb.

  13. Comply with noise abatement procedures.

Commercial Pilot ACS Skills Standards

The same as the Private Pilot, except:

  1. Establish pitch attitude to maintain the manufacturer’s recommended speed, or VY +/-5 knots.

  2. Maintain VY +/-5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.