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Mastering Short Field Landings (A Step-by-Step Guide)

Pilot Institute

They are also one of the most feared maneuvers during the private pilot checkride. Any substantial changes to speed and descent rate will destabilize the landing. The drag allows for a steeper descent, which is particularly helpful when avoiding obstacles. Will you need a crosswind correction?

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How to Make a Perfect Soft Field Landing Every Time

Pilot Institute

Going into a checkride (or a grass strip) without solid soft field skills is asking for trouble. A faster, reduced-flaps approach improves aircraft control during strong crosswinds or gusts. High-wing aircraft might need more power or pitch to arrest the descent. Soft field landings are widely misunderstood. Well, not exactly.

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How to Fly Perfect Lazy Eights

Pilot Institute

Lazy eights sound like the least challenging commercial checkride maneuver to learn. It’s just S-turns with climbs and descents, right? What standards does the commercial checkride require? A strong, gusty crosswind will push your stick and rudder skills to the limit. Perform the maneuver no lower than 1,500ft AGL.

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Pilot’s aviation app directory – 2025 Edition

iPad Pilot News

NRST: Descent Rate and Airport Finder Designed for pilots of any size aircraft, this app provides location-based information to guide you to the nearest airport should an unplanned deviation become necessary.Offers Apple Watch app. Pilot Workshops Explore Pilot Workshops’ collection of pilot proficiency courses in this app.

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When To Go Around: 6 Scenarios Every Pilot Should Prepare For

Northstar VFR

The go-around is a maneuver tested during your private pilot checkride. The standards set for the private pilot checkride are found in the Airman Certification Standards , Area of Operation IV: Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds, Task N: Go-Around/Rejected Landing. Wind shear can create landing hazards for all sizes of aircraft.

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How to Perform a Go-Around (The Right Way)

Pilot Institute

It helps reduce the chances of a stall and puts you in a better position to arrest the descent and start your climb out. Pitch for Climb The next immediate action is to arrest the descent. After adding full power and arresting the descent, the next step is to retract the flaps. The order is aviate, navigate, then communicate.