Short Field Takeoff and Climb

A maximum performance takeoff and climb over a 50 foot obstacle in the shortest possible distance

Note weight, speeds, pressure altitude, temp, runway conditions

Do not attempt to takeoff under conditions requiring performance beyond the capability of airplane or pilot

Private Pilot PTS, IV B
Explain elements, including significance of appropriate airspeeds and configurations, emergency procedures, and expected performance for existing conditions
Select recommended flap setting
Position airplane at beginning of runway, aligned with centerline
Smoothly advance throttle to max allowable
Maintain directional control on centerline
Adjust aileron deflection during acceleration
Rotate at recommended airspeed and accelerate to Vx
Climb at VXor recommended airspeed +5, -0 knots until obstacle is cleared, or until at least 50 feet above the surface, then accelerate to and maintain VY+/- 5 knots
Retract flaps as recommended or at safe altitude
Retract gear after positive rate of climb established and safe landing can no longer be made on remaining runway
Maintain takeoff power to safe maneuvering altitude
Maintain straight track over extended runway centerline
Complete after-takeoff checklist
Commercial Pilot PTS, IV B, adds:
Adjust mixture control as recommended for conditions
Review takeoff performance capabilities considering obstructions and conditions
Check engine instruments

To develop the student's knowledge and skill in planning and performing safe short-field takeoffs and climbs to meet the appropriate practical test standards
To provide thorough knowledge of takeoff and climb principles that will help prevent an attempt to takeoff under conditions requiring performance beyond the capability of airplane or pilot

See Normal and Crosswind Takeoff and Climb

Takeoff as directly into wind as possible

Demonstrate short-field takeoff and climb
Use of wing flaps
PA-38-112 (Tomahawk): Short-field: 21°, first notch
TR182 (Skylane): Short-field: 20°
Visually check flap extension
How to position and align airplane for maximum utilization of available takeoff area
Extreme end of runway with main gear just beyond threshold
Align with centerline
Note heading and ground references
Initial positioning of flight controls
Trim set for takeoff
PA-38-112: elevator tab slightly aft of neutral (depends on loading)
Ailerons full into any crosswind
Power application
PA-38-112
Fuel selector proper tank, Mix rich, PumpON, Carb heat OFF
Apply full power before brake release
TR182
Carb heat OFF, Mix RICH, Prop in high RPM
Brakes apply and hold
Smooth, steady advance throttle to 30-31"MP
Release brakes smoothly
Keep hand on throttle
Directional control during acceleration on the surface

Control direction with rudder, heels on floor, off brakes

POH-recommended VRdepends on weight

Initial climb attitude and airspeed (VX) until obstacle cleared
PA-38-112
Maintain VX= 61(+5, -0) KIAS until obstacle cleared, then
VY= 70 KIAS
TR182
VX= 60 KIAS over 50 foot obstacle
Brakes apply and gear UP out of runway and over obstacle
70 KIAS to approx 200 AGL
Flaps up slow and accel to 80 KIAS
Above 500 AGL, 90 KIAS, 25"MP, 2400 RPM, RICH
Track during climb
Climb out along extended runway centerline
In crosswind, sideslip takeoff converted to crab into wind for climbout
Use of checklist
Pre-takeoff checklist
On takeoff note outside references, airspeed, power settings, engine instruments
Transition to cruise check
Coach student practice
Critique student performance

Failure to position the airplane for maximum utilization of available takeoff area

Request use of an overrun area

For flaps, gear, trim only

Smooth, positive release after maximum allowable power developed

Hold pitch to maintain VX+5, -0 KIAS until over obstacle

Use outside references and HI