PPL Checkride Guide
← Area IV. Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds

Task IV.E

Short-Field Takeoff and Maximum Performance Climb

ASELAMEL

To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with short-field takeoff, maximum performance climb operations, and rejected takeoff procedures.

References: AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

Chair fly this task

Quick Review

Tolerances per FAA-S-ACS-6C (ASEL).

Technique Notes

Every foot of runway counts, so the flow is built around wasting none of it:

  • Taxi to use the full available length — back-taxi if needed. Flaps set per the POH short-field procedure.
  • Hold the brakes, smoothly apply full power, and check the engine instruments (full static RPM, oil pressure and temperature in the green) before releasing. This confirms the engine is making full power while stopping is still an option.
  • Release the brakes and accelerate with the pitch attitude neutral — no plowing, no premature back pressure.
  • Rotate at the POH-recommended speed, not before. Yanking it off early adds drag and stretches the ground roll.
  • Climb at Vx until the 50-ft obstacle is cleared, then lower the nose to Vy and retract flaps per the POH once clear and accelerating.

Official ACS elementsreference

Knowledge3 elements

The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

  • PA.IV.E.K1Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on takeoff and climb performance.
  • PA.IV.E.K2Best angle of climb speed (VX) and best rate of climb speed (VY).
  • PA.IV.E.K3Appropriate airplane configuration.
Risk Management13 elements

The applicant is able to identify, assess, and mitigate risk associated with:

  • PA.IV.E.R1Selection of runway based on pilot capability, airplane performance and limitations, available distance, and wind.
  • PA.IV.E.R2Effects of:
  • PA.IV.E.R2aa. Crosswind
  • PA.IV.E.R2bb. Windshear
  • PA.IV.E.R2cc. Tailwind
  • PA.IV.E.R2dd. Wake turbulence
  • PA.IV.E.R2ee. Takeoff surface/condition
  • PA.IV.E.R3Abnormal operations, including planning for:
  • PA.IV.E.R3aa. Rejected takeoff
  • PA.IV.E.R3bb. Potential engine failure in takeoff/climb phase of flight
  • PA.IV.E.R4Collision hazards.
  • PA.IV.E.R5Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).
  • PA.IV.E.R6Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
Skills15 elements

The applicant exhibits the skill to:

  • PA.IV.E.S1Complete the appropriate checklist(s).
  • PA.IV.E.S2Make radio calls as appropriate.
  • PA.IV.E.S3Verify assigned/correct runway.
  • PA.IV.E.S4Determine wind direction with or without visible wind direction indicators.
  • PA.IV.E.S5Position the flight controls for the existing wind, if applicable.
  • PA.IV.E.S6Clear the area, taxi into takeoff position, and align the airplane on the runway centerline utilizing maximum available takeoff area.
  • PA.IV.E.S7Apply brakes while setting engine power to achieve maximum performance.
  • PA.IV.E.S8Confirm takeoff power prior to brake release and verify proper engine and flight instrument indications prior to rotation.
  • PA.IV.E.S9Rotate and lift off at the recommended airspeed and accelerate to the recommended obstacle clearance airspeed or VX, +10/-5 knots.
  • PA.IV.E.S10Establish a pitch attitude to maintain the recommended obstacle clearance airspeed or VX, +10/-5 knots until the obstacle is cleared or until the airplane is 50 feet above the surface.
  • PA.IV.E.S11Establish a pitch attitude for VY and accelerate to VY +10/-5 knots after clearing the obstacle or at 50 feet AGL if simulating an obstacle.
  • PA.IV.E.S12Configure the airplane in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidance after a positive rate of climb has been verified.
  • PA.IV.E.S13Maintain VY +10/-5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.
  • PA.IV.E.S14Maintain directional control and proper wind-drift correction throughout takeoff and climb.
  • PA.IV.E.S15Comply with noise abatement procedures, as applicable.