Pilot Institute

JULY 12, 2024

Key Takeaways Start by setting up your approach correctly to ensure you arrive at the threshold perfectly every time. Learn to use aircraft references to establish a stable descent rate and pitch, ending up in a smooth roundout and flare. You should arrive at the threshold on the centerline at the proper height and speed each time.

Descent 52

Descent Weight-Shift-Control Crosswind Runway 52

Plane and Pilot

AUGUST 27, 2024

GA pilots find time-tested and more creative ways to skitter off the side of the runway, land short of the threshold, or slide off the far end with the brakes smoking and tires squealing. It reminds us that just as low, dragged-in approaches are bad, a steeper-than-normal approach has equal potential to cause unsafe touchdowns and landings.

Stability 82

Stability Approach Runway Pilot 82

Pilot Institute

MAY 4, 2024

Any substantial changes to speed and descent rate will destabilize the landing. If it prevents you from landing close to the threshold, a short runway becomes even shorter. Full flaps are generally used since they lower approach speed and increase drag. Power controls the rate of descent, and pitch controls airspeed.

Weight-Shift-Control 52

Weight-Shift-Control Runway Approach Descent 52

Pilot Institute

MARCH 26, 2024

However, the increased drag might make it impossible to take off again. On a normal landing, you’d pull the power over the threshold, begin your roundout, and flare around 10 feet AGL. When crossing the threshold, start reducing the power. High-wing aircraft might need more power or pitch to arrest the descent.

NOTAMs 52

NOTAMs Runway Approach Descent 52