IV. Takeoffs, Landings and Go-Arounds
D. Soft-Field Approach and Landing
References FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, POH/AFM; AIM
Objective To determine that the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with a soft-field approach and landing with emphasis or proper use and coordination of flight controls
The applicant demonstrates understanding of:
K1 A stabilized approach, to include energy management concepts  
K2 Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on approach and landing performance  
K3 Wind correction techniques on approach and landing  
The Applicant demonstrates the ability to identify, assess and mitigate risks encompassing:
R1 Selection of runway based on pilot capability, airplane performance and limitations, available distance and wind  
R2 Effects of:  
R2a a. Crosswind  
R2b b. Windshear  
R2c c. Tailwind  
R2d d. Wake Turbulence  
R2e e. Runway surface / condition  
R3 Planning for:  
R3a a Go-around and rejected landing.  
R3b b: Land and hold short operations (LAHSO)  
R4 Collision hazards to include aircraft, terrain, obstacles, wires, vehicles, persons, and wildlife  
R5 Low Altitude maneuvering including stall, spin, or CFIT  
R6 Distractions, loss of situational awareness, incorrect airport surface approach and landing, or improper task management  
The applicant demonstrates the ability to:
S1 Complete the appropriate checklist  
S2 Make radio calls as appropriate  
S3 Ensure the airplane is aligned with the correct/assigned runway or landing surface  
S4 Scan runway or landing surface and the adjoining area for traffic and obstructions  
S5 Select and aim for a suitable touchdown point considering the wind, landing surface, and obstructions  
S6 Establish the recommended approach and landing configuration and airspeed, and adjust pitch attitude and power as required to maintain a stabilized approach.  
S7 Maintain manufacturer's published approach airspped or in its absence not more than 1.3 Vso +10/-5 knots with gust factor applied  
S8 Maintain directional control and appropriate crosswind correction throughout the approach and landing  
S9 Make smooth, timely, and correct control inputs during the round out and touchdown, and, for tricycle gear airplanes, keep the nose wheel off the surface until loss of elevator effectiveness  
S10 Touch down at a proper pitch attitude with minimum sink rate, no side drift, and with the airplanes longitudinal axis aligned with the center of the runway.  
S11 Maintain elevator as recommended by manufacturer during rollout and exit the "soft" area at a speed that would preclude sinking into the surface  
S12 Execute a timely go-around if the approach cannot be made within the tolerances specified above or for any other condition that may result in an unsafe approach or landing  
S13 Maintain proper position of the flight controls and sufficient speed to taxi while on the soft surface