Airplane Approaches and Landings

There is an old saying that while takeoff is optional, landing is mandatory. In consideration of that adage, this section focuses on the approach to landing, factors that affect landings, types of landings, and aspects of faulty landings. A careful pilot knows that the safe outcome of a landing should never be in doubt. Pilots who respect their own limitations are able to approach each landing with confidence and achieve the satisfaction that comes from successful aircraft control. After any landing, a pilot performs a self-evaluation. If there is a question, a read of the relevant section in this section may help. When needed, additional flight instruction enhances safety.

The manufacturer’s recommended procedures, including airplane configuration and airspeeds, and other information relevant to approaches and landings in a specific make and model airplane are contained in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-approved Airplane Flight Manual and/or Pilot’s Operating Handbook (AFM/POH) for that airplane. If any of the information in this section differs from the airplane manufacturer’s recommendations as contained in the AFM/POH, the airplane manufacturer’s recommendations take precedence.

CONTENTS

• Use of Flaps
• Normal Approach and Landing
• Go-Arounds (Rejected Landings)
• Intentional Slips
• Crosswind Approach and Landing
• Turbulent Air Approach and Landing
• Short-Field Approach and Landing
• Soft-Field Approach and Landing
• Power-Off Accuracy Approaches
• Emergency Approaches and Landings (Simulated)
• Faulty Approaches and Landings
• Hydroplaning