How to Make a Short Field Landing
Runways vary in size from several miles to only a few thousand feet in length. For most light general aviation airplanes, pilots usually consider anything more than 5000 feet a long runway. However, when you land on a runway that is close to the landing distance from the performance charts, you must take special care to land safely. Read on to learn how to make a short field landing.
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Instructions
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Compute the airplane's landing distance using the airplane's performance charts. These charts take into account variables like weight, pressure altitude, temperature and winds.
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Set the flaps to the fully extended position while on final approach. This allows you to fly a slower and steeper approach to the runway.
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Trim the elevator forces off so the airplane flies hands-free. Using trim to your advantage lets you fly a more stable approach which sets you up for a better landing.
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Fly a slightly steeper glideslope than normal to clear any obstacles short of the runway. A big mistake is to fly a flat approach and touchdown short of the runway.
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Slow down to the recommended approach speed while on final. Any extra speed equates to a longer landing roll.
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Flare the airplane slightly higher than normal due to a larger descent rate. Consider adding just a bit of power during the flare to stop any excess descent rates.
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Land the airplane without letting it float in ground effect for too long. Once all three wheels are on the ground, begin applying the brakes and bring the airplane to a full stop.
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Tips & Warnings
Consider raising the flaps once on the ground to put as much weight as possible on the wheels. However, don't sacrifice aircraft control to perform this step.
Don't push a bad set-up to a landing. If you are too fast or too steep, go around and try the landing again. There is no shame in a second attempt at a difficult approach.
Wait until all three wheels are on the ground before applying the brakes. Heavy braking while on just the main gear may slam the nose gear to the ground and cause damage.
