FAA Airman Certification Standards - Private Pilot Airplane (FAA-S-ACS-6C)

Private Pilot for Airplane Category

Airman Certification StandardsFAA-S-ACS-6C

Flight Standards Service

Washington, DC 20591

November 2023

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)iForeword

The U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Office of Safety Standards,

Regulatory Support Division, Airman Testing Standards Branch, has published the Private Pilot for Airplane

Category Airman Certification Standards (ACS) to communicate the aeronautical knowledge, risk management,

and flight proficiency standards for private pilot certification in the airplane category, single-engine land and sea;

and multiengine land and sea classes.

This ACS is available for download, in PDF format, from www.faa.gov .

Comments regarding this ACS may be emailed to acsptsinquiries@faa.gov .

Material in FAA-S-ACS-6C supersedes FAA-S-ACS-6B, Private Pilot – Airplane Airman Certification Standards,

Change 1.

The FAA created FAA-G-ACS-2, Airman Certification Standards Companion Guide for Pilots, to provide guidance

considered relevant and useful to the community. The number of appendices in the ACS was reduced and much

of the non-regulatory material was moved to the Airman Certification Standards Companion Guide for Pilots.

Applicants, instructors, and evaluators should consult this companion guide to familiarize themselves with ACS

procedures. FAA-G-ACS-2 is available for download, in PDF format, from www.faa.gov .

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)iiRevision History

Document # Description Date

FAA-S-8081-14B Private Pilot Practical Test Standards for Airplane, (Changes 1-6) November 2011

FAA-S-ACS-6 Private Pilot – Airplane Airman Certification Standards June 1, 2016

FAA-S-ACS-6 Private Pilot – Airplane Airman Certification Standards (Change 1) June 15, 2016

FAA-S-ACS-6A Private Pilot – Airplane Airman Certification Standards (Change 1) June 12, 2017

FAA-S-ACS-6B Private Pilot – Airplane Airman Certification Standards June 11, 2018

FAA-S-ACS-6B Private Pilot – Airplane Airman Certification Standards (with Change 1) June 6, 2019

FAA-S-ACS-6C Private Pilot for Airplane Category Airman Certification Standards November 2023

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)iiiMajor Enhancements to FAA-S-ACS-6C

• The following ACS codes have been added:

• The following ACS codes have been removed and archived. Please see the Airman Certification Standards

Companion Guide for Pilots (FAA-G-ACS-2) for more information.

PA.III.A.R3

PA.IV.A.S10

PA.IV.I.S5

PA.IV.K.S7

PA.VIII.E.K1aPA.VIII.E.K1b

PA.VIII.E.K1c

PA.VIII.E.K1d

PA.VIII.E.R2

PA.VIII.E.R6PA.VIII.F.S3

PA.IX.C.K1a

PA.IX.C.K1b

PA.IX.C.K1c

PA.IX.C.K1dPA.XII.A.R2

PA.XII.A.S1

PA.XII.B.R2

• Non-regulatory material has been moved from the appendices to the Airman Certification Standards Companion

Guide for Pilots (FAA-G-ACS-2).

• Legends have been added to the Additional Ratings Task Tables.PA.I.B.K1e

PA.I.B.K4

PA.I.C.K2a

PA.I.C.K2b

PA.I.C.K2c

PA.I.C.K2d

PA.I.C.K2e

PA.I.C.K2f

PA.I.C.K2g

PA.I.D.K1a

PA.I.D.R7

PA.I.D.S5

PA.I.E.K4

PA.I.H.R4

PA.I.I.K1i

PA.I.I.K8

PA.I.I.K9

PA.I.I.R3

PA.I.I.R4

PA.I.I.S5

PA.I.I.S6

PA.II.A.S3 PA.II.A.S4

PA.II.B.K4

PA.II.B.R3

PA.II.B.S4

PA.II.C.K4

PA.II.D.R4

PA.II.E.R5

PA.III.A.R4

PA.IV.A.R7

PA.IV.A.S6a

PA.IV.A.S7a

PA.IV.G.S6a

PA.IV.I.S4a

PA.IV.I.S4b

PA.IV.K.S6a

PA.IV.K.S6b

PA.IV.N.R8

PA.IV.N.R9

PA.IV.N.S9

PA.VI.A.R3

PA.VI.B.R5

PA.VI.C.S6PA.VI.D.S5

PA.VII.B.S11

PA.VII.C.S11

PA.VIII.A.R5

PA.VIII.A.R6

PA.VIII.A.R7

PA.VIII.A.R8

PA.VIII.B.R5

PA.VIII.B.R6

PA.VIII.B.R7

PA.VIII.B.R8

PA.VIII.C.R5

PA.VIII.C.R6

PA.VIII.C.R7

PA.VIII.C.R8

PA.VIII.D.R5

PA.VIII.D.R6

PA.VIII.D.R7

PA.VIII.D.R8

PA.VIII.E.K2

PA.VIII.E.K3

PA.VIII.E.K4PA.VIII.E.R8

PA.VIII.E.R9

PA.VIII.E.R10

PA.VIII.E.S2

PA.IX.A.K4

PA.IX.A.S7

PA.IX.A.S8

PA.IX.C.R3

PA.IX.C.R4

PA.IX.D.K4

PA.IX.D.K5

PA.IX.D.R2

PA.IX.D.R3

PA.IX.D.S3

PA.XI.A.K6

PA.XI.A.K7

PA.XI.A.K8

PA.XI.A.R4

PA.XI.A.R5

PA.XI.A.R6

PA.XI.A.R7

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)ivIntroduction

Airman Certification Standards Concept ..................................................................................................... 1

Area of Operation I. Preflight Preparation

Task A. Pilot Qualifications ......................................................................................................................... 2

Task B. Airworthiness Requirements .......................................................................................................... 2

Task C. Weather Information ...................................................................................................................... 3

Task D. Cross-Country Flight Planning ....................................................................................................... 4

Task E. National Airspace System .............................................................................................................. 5

Task F. Performance and Limitations .......................................................................................................... 6

Task G. Operation of Systems .................................................................................................................... 7

Task H. Human Factors .............................................................................................................................. 8

Task I. Water and Seaplane Characteristics, Seaplane Bases, Maritime Rules, and Aids to Marine

Navigation (ASES, AMES) ............................................................................................................ 9

Area of Operation II. Preflight Procedures

Task A. Preflight Assessment ................................................................................................................... 11

Task B. Flight Deck Management ............................................................................................................. 11

Task C. Engine Starting ............................................................................................................................ 12

Task D. Taxiing (ASEL, AMEL) ................................................................................................................. 13

Task E. Taxiing and Sailing (ASES, AMES) .............................................................................................. 14

Task F. Before Takeoff Check ................................................................................................................... 15

Area of Operation III. Airport and Seaplane Base Operations

Task A. Communications, Light Signals, and Runway Lighting Systems ................................................. 16

Task B. Traffic Patterns ............................................................................................................................. 16

Area of Operation IV. Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds

Task A. Normal Takeoff and Climb ............................................................................................................ 18

Task B. Normal Approach and Landing .................................................................................................... 19

Task C. Soft-Field Takeoff and Climb (ASEL) ........................................................................................... 20

Task D. Soft-Field Approach and Landing (ASEL) .................................................................................... 22

Task E. Short-Field Takeoff and Maximum Performance Climb (ASEL, AMEL) ....................................... 23

Task F. Short-Field Approach and Landing (ASEL, AMEL) ....................................................................... 24

Task G. Confined Area Takeoff and Maximum Performance Climb (ASES, AMES) ................................. 26

Task H. Confined Area Approach and Landing (ASES, AMES) ................................................................ 27

Task I. Glassy Water Takeoff and Climb (ASES, AMES) .......................................................................... 28

Task J. Glassy Water Approach and Landing (ASES, AMES) .................................................................. 30

Task K. Rough Water Takeoff and Climb (ASES, AMES) ......................................................................... 31Table of Contents

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)v

Table of ContentsTask L. Rough Water Approach and Landing (ASES, AMES) .................................................................. 32

Task M. Forward Slip to a Landing (ASEL, ASES) ................................................................................... 33

Task N. Go-Around/Rejected Landing ...................................................................................................... 34

Area of Operation V. Performance Maneuvers and Ground Reference Maneuvers

Task A. Steep Turns .................................................................................................................................. 36

Task B. Ground Reference Maneuvers .................................................................................................... 36

Area of Operation VI. Navigation

Task A. Pilotage and Dead Reckoning ..................................................................................................... 38

Task B. Navigation Systems and Radar Services .................................................................................... 39

Task C. Diversion ...................................................................................................................................... 39

Task D. Lost Procedures .......................................................................................................................... 40

Area of Operation VII. Slow Flight and Stalls

Task A. Maneuvering During Slow Flight .................................................................................................. 42

Task B. Power-Off Stalls ........................................................................................................................... 42

Task C. Power-On Stalls ........................................................................................................................... 44

Task D. Spin Awareness ........................................................................................................................... 45

Area of Operation VIII. Basic Instrument Maneuvers

Task A. Straight-and-Level Flight .............................................................................................................. 46

Task B. Constant Airspeed Climbs ........................................................................................................... 46

Task C. Constant Airspeed Descents ....................................................................................................... 47

Task D. Turns to Headings ....................................................................................................................... 48

Task E. Recovery from Unusual Flight Attitudes ....................................................................................... 49

Task F. Radio Communications, Navigation Systems/Facilities, and Radar Services .............................. 50

Area of Operation IX. Emergency Operations

Task A. Emergency Descent ..................................................................................................................... 51

Task B. Emergency Approach and Landing (Simulated) (ASEL, ASES) .................................................. 51

Task C. Systems and Equipment Malfunctions ........................................................................................ 52

Task D. Emergency Equipment and Survival Gear .................................................................................. 53

Task E. Engine Failure During Takeoff Before VMC (Simulated) (AMEL, AMES) ....................................... 54

Task F. Engine Failure After Liftoff (Simulated) (AMEL, AMES) ............................................................... 55

Task G. Approach and Landing with an Inoperative Engine (Simulated)(AMEL, AMES) ......................... 56

Area of Operation X. Multiengine Operations

Task A. Maneuvering with One Engine Inoperative (AMEL, AMES) ......................................................... 58

Task B. VMC Demonstration (AMEL, AMES) .............................................................................................. 59

Task C. One Engine Inoperative (Simulated) (solely by Reference to Instruments) During Straight-

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)vi

Table of Contentsand-Level Flight and Turns (AMEL, AMES) ................................................................................ 60

Task D. Instrument Approach and Landing with an Inoperative Engine (Simulated) (AMEL, AMES) .......61

Area of Operation XI. Night Operations

Task A. Night Operations .......................................................................................................................... 63

Area of Operation XII. Postflight Procedures

Task A. After Landing, Parking, and Securing (ASEL, AMEL) .................................................................. 64

Task B. Seaplane Post-Landing Procedures (ASES, AMES) ................................................................... 64

Appendix 1: Practical Test Roles, Responsibilities, and Outcomes

Eligibility Requirements for a Private Pilot Certificate ................................................................................ 66

Private Pilot Airplane Knowledge Test Table .............................................................................................. 66

Use of the ACS During a Practical Test ..................................................................................................... 66

Combined Private/Instrument Test ............................................................................................................ 67

Instructor Responsibilities .......................................................................................................................... 67

Evaluator Responsibilities ......................................................................................................................... 67

Possible Outcomes of the Test .................................................................................................................. 68

Additional Rating Task Table ...................................................................................................................... 69

Addition of an Airplane Single-Engine Land Rating to an Existing Private Pilot Certificate ....................... 70

Addition of an Airplane Single-Engine Sea Rating to an Existing Private Pilot Certificate ........................ 71

Addition of an Airplane Multiengine Land Rating to an Existing Private Pilot Certificate ........................... 72

Addition of an Airplane Multiengine Sea Rating to an existing Private Pilot Certificate ............................ 73

Removal of the “Airplane Multiengine VFR Only” Limitation ..................................................................... 74

Removal of the “Limited to Center Thrust” Limitation ................................................................................ 74

Appendix 2: Safety of Flight

General .................................................................................................................................................... 75

Stall and Spin Awareness .......................................................................................................................... 75

Use of Checklists ....................................................................................................................................... 75

Positive Exchange of Flight Controls ......................................................................................................... 75

Use of Distractions .................................................................................................................................... 75

Aeronautical Decision-Making, Risk Management, Crew Resource Management, and Single-Pilot

Resource Management ............................................................................................................... 75

Multiengine Considerations ....................................................................................................................... 76

Single-Engine Considerations .................................................................................................................. 76

Appendix 3: Aircraft, Equipment, and Operational Requirements & Limitations

Aircraft Requirements & Limitations .......................................................................................................... 77

Equipment Requirements & Limitations .................................................................................................... 77

Use of Flight Simulation Training Devices (FSTD) .................................................................................... 77

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)vii

Table of ContentsCredit for Pilot Time in an FSTD ................................................................................................................ 77

Use of Aviation Training Devices (ATD) ..................................................................................................... 77

Credit for Pilot Time in an ATD ................................................................................................................... 77

Operational Requirements, Limitations, & Task Information ...................................................................... 78

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)1Introduction

Airman Certification Standards Concept

The goal of the airman certification process is to ensure the applicant possesses the knowledge, ability to manage risks,

and skill consistent with the privileges of the certificate or rating being exercised, in order to act as pilot-in-command (PIC).

Safe operations in today’s National Airspace System (NAS) require the integration of aeronautical knowledge, risk

management, and flight proficiency standards. To accomplish these goals, the FAA drew upon the expertise of organizations

and individuals across the aviation and training community to develop the ACS. The ACS integrates the elements of

knowledge, risk management, and skill required for each airman certificate or rating. It thus forms a more comprehensive

standard for what an applicant must know, consider, and do to demonstrate proficiency to pass the tests required for

issuance of the applicable airman certificate or rating.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)2Area of Operation I. Preflight Preparation

Area of Operation I. Preflight Preparation

Task A. Pilot Qualifications

eferences: R 14 CFR parts 61, 68, 91; AC 68-1; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated

with airman and medical certificates including privileges, limitations, currency, and operating as pilot-in-

command as a private pilot.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.I.A.K1 Certification requirements, recent flight experience, and recordkeeping.

PA.I.A.K2 Privileges and limitations.

PA.I.A.K3 Medical certificates: class, expiration, privileges, temporary disqualifications.

PA.I.A.K4 Documents required to exercise private pilot privileges.

PA.I.A.K5 Part 68 BasicMed privileges and limitations.

Risk

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

PA.I.A.R1 Proficiency versus currency.

PA.I.A.R2 Flying unfamiliar aircraft or operating with unfamiliar flight display systems and avionics.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.I.A.S1 Apply requirements to act as pilot-in-command (PIC) under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) in a scenario

given by the evaluator.

Task B. Airworthiness Requirements

eferences: R 14 CFR parts 39, 43, 91; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

airworthiness requirements, including airplane certificates.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.I.B.K1 General airworthiness requirements and compliance for airplanes, including:

PA.I.B.K1a a. Location and expiration dates of required aircraft certificates

PA.I.B.K1b b. Required inspections and airplane logbook documentation

PA.I.B.K1c c. Airworthiness Directives and Special Airworthiness Information Bulletins

PA.I.B.K1d d. Purpose and procedure for obtaining a special flight permit

PA.I.B.K1e e. Owner/Operator and pilot-in-command responsibilities

PA.I.B.K2 Pilot-performed preventive maintenance.

PA.I.B.K3 Equipment requirements for day and night VFR flight, including:

PA.I.B.K3a a. Flying with inoperative equipment

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)3Area of Operation I. Preflight Preparation

PA.I.B.K3b b. Using an approved Minimum Equipment List (MEL)

PA.I.B.K3c c. Kinds of Operation Equipment List (KOEL)

PA.I.B.K3d d. Required discrepancy records or placards

PA.I.B.K4 Standard and special airworthiness certificates and their associated operational limitations.

Risk

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

PA.I.B.R1 Inoperative equipment discovered prior to flight.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.I.B.S1 Locate and describe airplane airworthiness and registration information.

PA.I.B.S2 Determine the airplane is airworthy in the scenario given by the evaluator.

PA.I.B.S3 Apply appropriate procedures for operating with inoperative equipment in the scenario given by the

evaluator.

Task C. Weather Information

eferences: R 14 CFR part 91; AC 91-92; AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25, FAA-H-8083-28

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

weather information for a flight under VFR.

ote: N If K2 is selected, the evaluator must assess the applicant’s knowledge of at least three sub-elements.

ote: N If K3 is selected, the evaluator must assess the applicant’s knowledge of at least three sub-elements.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.I.C.K1 Sources of weather data (e.g., National Weather Service, Flight Service) for flight planning purposes.

PA.I.C.K2 Acceptable weather products and resources required for preflight planning, current and forecast

weather for departure, en route, and arrival phases of flight such as:

PA.I.C.K2a a. Airport Observations (METAR and SPECI) and Pilot Observations (PIREP)

PA.I.C.K2b b. Surface Analysis Chart, Ceiling and Visibility Chart (CVA)

PA.I.C.K2c c. Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts (TAF)

PA.I.C.K2d d. Graphical Forecasts for Aviation (GFA)

PA.I.C.K2e e. Wind and Temperature Aloft Forecast (FB)

PA.I.C.K2f f. Convective Outlook (AC)

PA.I.C.K2g g. Inflight Aviation Weather Advisories including Airmen's Meteorological Information (AIRMET),

Significant Meteorological Information (SIGMET), and Convective SIGMET

PA.I.C.K3 Meteorology applicable to the departure, en route, alternate, and destination under visual flight

rules (VFR) in Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC), including expected climate and hazardous

conditions such as:

PA.I.C.K3a a. Atmospheric composition and stability

PA.I.C.K3b b. Wind (e.g., windshear, mountain wave, factors affecting wind, etc.)

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)4Area of Operation I. Preflight Preparation

PA.I.C.K3c c. Temperature and heat exchange

PA.I.C.K3d d. Moisture/precipitation

PA.I.C.K3e e. Weather system formation, including air masses and fronts

PA.I.C.K3f f. Clouds

PA.I.C.K3g g. Turbulence

PA.I.C.K3h h. Thunderstorms and microbursts

PA.I.C.K3i i. Icing and freezing level information

PA.I.C.K3j j. Fog/mist

PA.I.C.K3k k. Frost

PA.I.C.K3l l. Obstructions to visibility (e.g., smoke, haze, volcanic ash, etc.)

PA.I.C.K4 Flight deck instrument displays of digital weather and aeronautical information.

Risk

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

PA.I.C.R1 Making the go/no-go and continue/divert decisions, including:

PA.I.C.R1a a. Circumstances that would make diversion prudent

PA.I.C.R1b b. Personal weather minimums

PA.I.C.R1c c. Hazardous weather conditions, including known or forecast icing or turbulence aloft

PA.I.C.R2 Use and limitations of:

PA.I.C.R2a a. Installed onboard weather equipment

PA.I.C.R2b b. Aviation weather reports and forecasts

PA.I.C.R2c c. Inflight weather resources

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.I.C.S1 Use available aviation weather resources to obtain an adequate weather briefing.

PA.I.C.S2 Analyze the implications of at least three of the conditions listed in K3a through K3l, using actual

weather or weather conditions provided by the evaluator.

PA.I.C.S3 Correlate weather information to make a go/no-go decision.

Task D. Cross-Country Flight Planning

eferences: R 14 CFR part 91; AIM; Chart Supplements; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; NOTAMs;

VFR Navigation Charts

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

cross-country flights and VFR flight planning.

ote: N Preparation, presentation, and explanation of a computer-generated flight plan is an acceptable option.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)5Area of Operation I. Preflight Preparation

PA.I.D.K1 Route planning, including consideration of different classes and special use airspace (SUA) and

selection of appropriate and available navigation/communication systems and facilities.

PA.I.D.K1a a. Use of an electronic flight bag (EFB), if used

PA.I.D.K2 Altitude selection accounting for terrain and obstacles, glide distance of airplane, VFR cruising

altitudes, and effect of wind.

PA.I.D.K3 Calculating:

PA.I.D.K3a a. Time, climb and descent rates, course, distance, heading, true airspeed, and groundspeed

PA.I.D.K3b b. Estimated time of arrival, including conversion to universal coordinated time (UTC)

PA.I.D.K3c c. Fuel requirements, including reserve

PA.I.D.K4 Elements of a VFR flight plan.

PA.I.D.K5 Procedures for filing, activating, and closing a VFR flight plan.

PA.I.D.K6 Inflight intercept procedures.

Risk

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

PA.I.D.R1 Pilot.

PA.I.D.R2 Aircraft.

PA.I.D.R3 Environment (e.g., weather, airports, airspace, terrain, obstacles).

PA.I.D.R4 External pressures.

PA.I.D.R5 Limitations of air traffic control (ATC) services.

PA.I.D.R6 Fuel planning.

PA.I.D.R7 Use of an electronic flight bag (EFB), if used.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.I.D.S1 Prepare, present, and explain a cross-country flight plan assigned by the evaluator, including a risk

analysis based on real-time weather, to the first fuel stop.

PA.I.D.S2 Apply pertinent information from appropriate and current aeronautical charts, Chart Supplements;

Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs) relative to airport, runway and taxiway closures; and other flight

publications.

PA.I.D.S3 Create a navigation plan and simulate filing a VFR flight plan.

PA.I.D.S4 Recalculate fuel reserves based on a scenario provided by the evaluator.

PA.I.D.S5 Use an electronic flight bag (EFB), if applicable.

Task E. National Airspace System

eferences: R 14 CFR parts 71, 91, 93; AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; VFR Navigation Charts

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

National Airspace System (NAS) operations under VFR as a private pilot.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)6Area of Operation I. Preflight Preparation

PA.I.E.K1 Airspace classes and associated requirements and limitations.

PA.I.E.K2 Chart symbols.

PA.I.E.K3 Special use airspace (SUA), special flight rules areas (SFRA), temporary flight restrictions (TFR), and

other airspace areas.

PA.I.E.K4 Special visual flight rules (VFR) requirements.

Risk

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

PA.I.E.R1 Various classes and types of airspace.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.I.E.S1 Identify and comply with the requirements for basic VFR weather minimums and flying in particular

classes of airspace.

PA.I.E.S2 Correctly identify airspace and operate in accordance with associated communication and equipment

requirements.

PA.I.E.S3 Identify the requirements for operating in SUA or within a TFR. Identify and comply with special air

traffic rules (SATR) and SFRA operations, if applicable.

Task F. Performance and Limitations

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-1, FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

operating an airplane safely within the parameters of its performance capabilities and limitations.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.I.F.K1 Elements related to performance and limitations by explaining the use of charts, tables, and data to

determine performance.

PA.I.F.K2 Factors affecting performance, including:

PA.I.F.K2a a. Atmospheric conditions

PA.I.F.K2b b. Pilot technique

PA.I.F.K2c c. Airplane configuration

PA.I.F.K2d d. Airport environment

PA.I.F.K2e e. Loading [e.g., center of gravity (CG)]

PA.I.F.K2f f. Weight and balance

PA.I.F.K3 Aerodynamics.

Risk

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

PA.I.F.R1 Use of performance charts, tables, and data.

PA.I.F.R2 Airplane limitations.

PA.I.F.R3 Possible differences between calculated performance and actual performance.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)7Area of Operation I. Preflight Preparation

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.I.F.S1 Compute the weight and balance, correct out-of-CG loading errors and determine if the weight and

balance remains within limits during all phases of flight.

PA.I.F.S2 Use the appropriate airplane performance charts, tables, and data.

Task G. Operation of Systems

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-23, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

safe operation of systems on the airplane provided for the flight test.

ote: N If K1 is selected, the evaluator must assess the applicant's knowledge of at least three sub-elements.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.I.G.K1 Airplane systems, including:

PA.I.G.K1a a. Primary flight controls

PA.I.G.K1b b. Secondary flight controls

PA.I.G.K1c c. Powerplant and propeller

PA.I.G.K1d d. Landing gear

PA.I.G.K1e e. Fuel, oil, and hydraulic

PA.I.G.K1f f. Electrical

PA.I.G.K1g g. Avionics

PA.I.G.K1h h. Pitot-static, vacuum/pressure, and associated flight instruments

PA.I.G.K1i i. Environmental

PA.I.G.K1j j. Deicing and anti-icing

PA.I.G.K1k k. Water rudders (ASES, AMES)

PA.I.G.K1l l. Oxygen system

PA.I.G.K2 Indications of and procedures for managing system abnormalities or failures.

Risk

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

PA.I.G.R1 Detection of system malfunctions or failures.

PA.I.G.R2 Management of a system failure.

PA.I.G.R3 Monitoring and management of automated systems.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.I.G.S1 Operate at least three of the systems listed in K1a through K1l appropriately.

PA.I.G.S2 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)8Area of Operation I. Preflight Preparation

Task H. Human Factors

eferences: R AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

personal health, flight physiology, and aeromedical and human factors related to safety of flight.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.I.H.K1 Symptoms, recognition, causes, effects, and corrective actions associated with aeromedical and

physiological issues, including:

PA.I.H.K1a a. Hypoxia

PA.I.H.K1b b. Hyperventilation

PA.I.H.K1c c. Middle ear and sinus problems

PA.I.H.K1d d. Spatial disorientation

PA.I.H.K1e e. Motion sickness

PA.I.H.K1f f. Carbon monoxide poisoning

PA.I.H.K1g g. Stress

PA.I.H.K1h h. Fatigue

PA.I.H.K1i i. Dehydration and nutrition

PA.I.H.K1j j. Hypothermia

PA.I.H.K1k k. Optical illusions

PA.I.H.K1l l. Dissolved nitrogen in the bloodstream after scuba dives

PA.I.H.K2 Regulations regarding use of alcohol and drugs.

PA.I.H.K3 Effects of alcohol, drugs, and over-the-counter medications.

PA.I.H.K4 Aeronautical Decision-Making (ADM) to include using Crew Resource Management (CRM) or Single-

Pilot Resource Management (SRM), as appropriate.

Risk

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

PA.I.H.R1 Aeromedical and physiological issues.

PA.I.H.R2 Hazardous attitudes.

PA.I.H.R3 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.I.H.R4 Confirmation and expectation bias.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.I.H.S1 Associate the symptoms and effects for at least three of the conditions listed in K1a through K1l with

the cause(s) and corrective action(s).

PA.I.H.S2 Perform self-assessment, including fitness for flight and personal minimums, for actual flight or a

scenario given by the evaluator.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)9Area of Operation I. Preflight Preparation

Task I. Water and Seaplane Characteristics, Seaplane Bases, Maritime Rules, and Aids to Marine

Navigation (ASES, AMES)

eferences: R AIM; Chart Supplements; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-23, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM;

USCG Navigation Rules

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

water and seaplane characteristics, seaplane bases, maritime rules, and aids to marine navigation.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.I.I.K1 The characteristics of a water surface as affected by features, such as:

PA.I.I.K1a a. Size and location

PA.I.I.K1b b. Protected and unprotected areas

PA.I.I.K1c c. Surface wind

PA.I.I.K1d d. Direction and strength of water current

PA.I.I.K1e e. Floating and partially submerged debris

PA.I.I.K1f f. Sandbars, islands, and shoals

PA.I.I.K1g g. Vessel traffic and wakes

PA.I.I.K1h h. Other characteristics specific to the area

PA.I.I.K1i i. Direction and height of waves

PA.I.I.K2 Float and hull construction, and its effect on seaplane performance.

PA.I.I.K3 Causes of porpoising and skipping, and the pilot action needed to prevent or correct these

occurrences.

PA.I.I.K4 How to locate and identify seaplane bases on charts or in directories.

PA.I.I.K5 Operating restrictions at various bases.

PA.I.I.K6 Right-of-way, steering, and sailing rules pertinent to seaplane operation.

PA.I.I.K7 Marine navigation aids, such as buoys, beacons, lights, sound signals, and range markers.

PA.I.I.K8 Naval vessel protection zones.

PA.I.I.K9 No wake zones.

Risk

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

PA.I.I.R1 Local conditions.

PA.I.I.R2 Impact of marine traffic.

PA.I.I.R3 Right-of-way and sailing rules pertinent to seaplane operations.

PA.I.I.R4 Limited services and assistance available at seaplane bases.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.I.I.S1 Assess the water surface characteristics for the proposed flight.

PA.I.I.S2 Identify restrictions at local seaplane bases.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)10Area of Operation I. Preflight Preparation

PA.I.I.S3 Identify marine navigation aids.

PA.I.I.S4 Describe correct right-of-way, steering, and sailing operations.

PA.I.I.S5 Explain how float and hull construction can affect seaplane performance.

PA.I.I.S6 Describe how to correct for porpoising and skipping.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)11Area of Operation II. Preflight Procedures

Area of Operation II. Preflight Procedures

Task A. Preflight Assessment

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-23, FAA-H-8083-25, FAA-H-8083-28; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

preparation for safe flight.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.II.A.K1 Pilot self-assessment.

PA.II.A.K2 Determining that the airplane to be used is appropriate and airworthy.

PA.II.A.K3 Airplane preflight inspection, including:

PA.II.A.K3a a. Which items should be inspected

PA.II.A.K3b b. The reasons for checking each item

PA.II.A.K3c c. How to detect possible defects

PA.II.A.K3d d. The associated regulations

PA.II.A.K4 Environmental factors, including weather, terrain, route selection, and obstructions.

Risk

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

PA.II.A.R1 Pilot.

PA.II.A.R2 Aircraft.

PA.II.A.R3 Environment (e.g., weather, airports, airspace, terrain, obstacles).

PA.II.A.R4 External pressures.

PA.II.A.R5 Aviation security concerns.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.II.A.S1 Inspect the airplane with reference to an appropriate checklist.

PA.II.A.S2 Verify the airplane is in condition for safe flight and conforms to its type design.

PA.II.A.S3 Perform self-assessment.

PA.II.A.S4 Continue to assess the environment for safe flight.

Task B. Flight Deck Management

eferences: R 14 CFR part 91; AC 120-71; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

flight deck management practices.

ote: N See Appendix 2: Safety of Flight.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)12Area of Operation II. Preflight Procedures

PA.II.B.K1 Passenger briefing requirements, including operation and required use of safety restraint systems.

PA.II.B.K2 Use of appropriate checklists.

PA.II.B.K3 Requirements for current and appropriate navigation data.

PA.II.B.K4 Securing items and cargo.

Risk

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

PA.II.B.R1 Use of systems or equipment, including automation and portable electronic devices.

PA.II.B.R2 Inoperative equipment.

PA.II.B.R3 Passenger distractions.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.II.B.S1 Secure all items in the aircraft.

PA.II.B.S2 Conduct an appropriate passenger briefing, including identifying the pilot-in-command (PIC), use of

safety belts, shoulder harnesses, doors, passenger conduct, sterile aircraft, propeller blade avoidance,

and emergency procedures.

PA.II.B.S3 Properly program and manage the aircraft’s automation, as applicable.

PA.II.B.S4 Appropriately manage risks by utilizing ADM, including SRM/CRM.

Task C. Engine Starting

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

recommended engine starting procedures.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.II.C.K1 Starting under various conditions.

PA.II.C.K2 Starting the engine(s) by use of external power.

PA.II.C.K3 Limitations associated with starting.

PA.II.C.K4 Conditions leading to and procedures for an aborted start.

Risk

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

PA.II.C.R1 Propeller safety.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.II.C.S1 Position the airplane properly considering structures, other aircraft, wind, and the safety of nearby

persons and property.

PA.II.C.S2 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)13Area of Operation II. Preflight Procedures

Task D. Taxiing (ASEL, AMEL)

eferences: R AC 91-73; AIM; Chart Supplements; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

taxi operations, including runway incursion avoidance.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.II.D.K1 Current airport aeronautical references and information resources such as the Chart Supplement,

airport diagram, and Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs).

PA.II.D.K2 Taxi instructions/clearances.

PA.II.D.K3 Airport markings, signs, and lights.

PA.II.D.K4 Visual indicators for wind.

PA.II.D.K5 Aircraft lighting, as appropriate.

PA.II.D.K6 Procedures for:

PA.II.D.K6a a. Appropriate flight deck activities prior to taxi, including route planning and identifying the

location of Hot Spots

PA.II.D.K6b b. Radio communications at towered and nontowered airports

PA.II.D.K6c c. Entering or crossing runways

PA.II.D.K6d d. Night taxi operations

PA.II.D.K6e e. Low visibility taxi operations

Risk

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

PA.II.D.R1 Activities and distractions.

PA.II.D.R2 Confirmation or expectation bias as related to taxi instructions.

PA.II.D.R3 A taxi route or departure runway change.

PA.II.D.R4 Runway incursion.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.II.D.S1 Receive and correctly read back clearances/instructions, if applicable.

PA.II.D.S2 Use an airport diagram or taxi chart during taxi, if published, and maintain situational awareness.

PA.II.D.S3 Position the flight controls for the existing wind, if applicable.

PA.II.D.S4 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

PA.II.D.S5 Perform a brake check immediately after the airplane begins moving.

PA.II.D.S6 Maintain positive control of the airplane during ground operations by controlling direction and speed

without excessive use of brakes.

PA.II.D.S7 Comply with airport/taxiway markings, signals, and air traffic control (ATC) clearances and instructions.

PA.II.D.S8 Position the airplane properly relative to hold lines.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)14Area of Operation II. Preflight Procedures

Task E. Taxiing and Sailing (ASES, AMES)

eferences: R AC 91-73; AIM; Chart Supplements; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-23, FAA-H-8083-25;

POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

taxiing and sailing operations, including runway incursion avoidance.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.II.E.K1 Airport information resources, including Chart Supplements, airport diagram, and appropriate

references.

PA.II.E.K2 Taxi instructions/clearances.

PA.II.E.K3 Airport/seaplane base markings, signs, and lights.

PA.II.E.K4 Visual indicators for wind.

PA.II.E.K5 Airplane lighting.

PA.II.E.K6 Procedures for:

PA.II.E.K6a a. Appropriate flight deck activities during taxiing or sailing

PA.II.E.K6b b. Radio communications at towered and nontowered seaplane bases

Risk

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

PA.II.E.R1 Activities and distractions.

PA.II.E.R2 Porpoising and skipping.

PA.II.E.R3 Low visibility taxi and sailing operations.

PA.II.E.R4 Other aircraft, vessels, and hazards.

PA.II.E.R5 Confirmation or expectation bias as related to taxi instructions.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.II.E.S1 Receive and correctly read back clearances/instructions, if applicable.

PA.II.E.S2 Use an appropriate airport diagram or taxi chart, if published.

PA.II.E.S3 Comply with seaplane base/airport/taxiway markings, signals, and signs.

PA.II.E.S4 Depart the dock/mooring buoy or beach/ramp in a safe manner, considering wind, current, traffic, and

hazards.

PA.II.E.S5 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

PA.II.E.S6 Position the flight controls, flaps, doors, water rudders, and power correctly for the existing conditions

to follow the desired course while sailing and to prevent or correct for porpoising and skipping during

step taxi.

PA.II.E.S7 Exhibit procedures for steering and maneuvering while maintaining proper situational awareness

and desired orientation, path, and position while taxiing using idle, plow, or step taxi technique, as

appropriate.

PA.II.E.S8 Plan and follow the most favorable taxi or sailing course for current conditions.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)15Area of Operation II. Preflight Procedures

PA.II.E.S9 Abide by right-of-way rules, maintain positive airplane control, proper speed, and separation between

other aircraft, vessels, and persons.

PA.II.E.S10 Comply with applicable taxi elements in Task D if the practical test is conducted in an amphibious

airplane.

Task F. Before Takeoff Check

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-23, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

before takeoff check.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.II.F.K1 Purpose of before takeoff checklist items, including:

PA.II.F.K1a a. Reasons for checking each item

PA.II.F.K1b b. Detecting malfunctions

PA.II.F.K1c c. Ensuring the aircraft is in safe operating condition as recommended by the manufacturer

Risk

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

PA.II.F.R1 Division of attention while conducting before takeoff checks.

PA.II.F.R2 Unexpected runway changes by air traffic control (ATC).

PA.II.F.R3 Wake turbulence.

PA.II.F.R4 Potential powerplant failure during takeoff or other malfunction considering operational factors such as

airplane characteristics, runway/takeoff path length, surface conditions, environmental conditions, and

obstructions.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.II.F.S1 Review takeoff performance.

PA.II.F.S2 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

PA.II.F.S3 Position the airplane appropriately considering wind direction and the presence of any aircraft, vessels,

or buildings as applicable.

PA.II.F.S4 Divide attention inside and outside the flight deck.

PA.II.F.S5 Verify that engine parameters and airplane configuration are suitable.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)16Area of Operation III. Airport and Seaplane Base Operations

Area of Operation III. Airport and Seaplane Base Operations

Task A. Communications, Light Signals, and Runway Lighting Systems

eferences: R 14 CFR part 91; AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

normal and emergency radio communications, air traffic control (ATC) light signals, and runway lighting

systems.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.III.A.K1 How to obtain appropriate radio frequencies.

PA.III.A.K2 Proper radio communication procedures and air traffic control (ATC) phraseology.

PA.III.A.K3 ATC light signal recognition.

PA.III.A.K4 Appropriate use of transponder(s).

PA.III.A.K5 Lost communication procedures.

PA.III.A.K6 Equipment issues that could cause loss of communication.

PA.III.A.K7 Radar assistance.

PA.III.A.K8 National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) accident/incident reporting.

PA.III.A.K9 Runway Status Lighting Systems.

Risk

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

PA.III.A.R1 Communication.

PA.III.A.R2 Deciding if and when to declare an emergency.

PA.III.A.R3 [Archived]

PA.III.A.R4 Use of non-standard phraseology.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.III.A.S1 Select and activate appropriate frequencies.

PA.III.A.S2 Transmit using standard phraseology and procedures as specified in the Aeronautical Information

Manual (AIM) and Pilot/Controller Glossary.

PA.III.A.S3 Acknowledge radio communications and comply with ATC instructions or as directed by the evaluator.

Task B. Traffic Patterns

eferences: R 14 CFR part 91; AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

traffic patterns.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.III.B.K1 Towered and nontowered airport operations.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)17Area of Operation III. Airport and Seaplane Base Operations

PA.III.B.K2 Traffic pattern selection for the current conditions.

PA.III.B.K3 Right-of-way rules.

PA.III.B.K4 Use of automated weather and airport information.

Risk

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

PA.III.B.R1 Collision hazards.

PA.III.B.R2 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.III.B.R3 Windshear and wake turbulence.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.III.B.S1 Identify and interpret airport/seaplane base runways, taxiways, markings, signs, and lighting.

PA.III.B.S2 Comply with recommended traffic pattern procedures.

PA.III.B.S3 Correct for wind drift to maintain the proper ground track.

PA.III.B.S4 Maintain orientation with the runway/landing area in use.

PA.III.B.S5 Maintain traffic pattern altitude, ±100 feet, and the appropriate airspeed, ±10 knots.

PA.III.B.S6 Maintain situational awareness and proper spacing from other aircraft in the traffic pattern.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)18Area of Operation IV. Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds

Area of Operation IV. Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds

Task A. Normal Takeoff and Climb

eferences: R AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-23, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

normal takeoff, climb operations, and rejected takeoff procedures.

ote: N If a crosswind condition does not exist, the applicant’s knowledge of crosswind elements must be

evaluated through oral testing.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.IV.A.K1 Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on takeoff and climb performance.

PA.IV.A.K2 Best angle of climb speed (VX) and best rate of climb speed (VY).

PA.IV.A.K3 Appropriate airplane configuration.

Risk

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

PA.IV.A.R1 Selection of runway or takeoff path based on aircraft performance and limitations, available distance,

and wind.

PA.IV.A.R2 Effects of:

PA.IV.A.R2a a. Crosswind

PA.IV.A.R2b b. Windshear

PA.IV.A.R2c c. Tailwind

PA.IV.A.R2d d. Wake turbulence

PA.IV.A.R2e e. Takeoff surface/condition

PA.IV.A.R3 Abnormal operations, including planning for:

PA.IV.A.R3a a. Rejected takeoff

PA.IV.A.R3b b. Potential engine failure in takeoff/climb phase of flight

PA.IV.A.R4 Collision hazards.

PA.IV.A.R5 Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

PA.IV.A.R6 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.IV.A.R7 Runway incursion.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.IV.A.S1 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

PA.IV.A.S2 Make radio calls as appropriate.

PA.IV.A.S3 Verify assigned/correct runway or takeoff path.

PA.IV.A.S4 Determine wind direction with or without visible wind direction indicators.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)19Area of Operation IV. Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds

PA.IV.A.S5 Position the flight controls for the existing wind, if applicable.

PA.IV.A.S6 Clear the area, taxi into takeoff position, and align the airplane on the runway centerline (ASEL, AMEL)

or takeoff path (ASES, AMES).

PA.IV.A.S6a a. Retract the water rudders, as appropriate (ASES, AMES)

PA.IV.A.S7 Advance the throttle smoothly to takeoff power and confirm proper engine and flight instrument

indications prior to rotation.

PA.IV.A.S7a a. Establish and maintain the most efficient planing/lift-off attitude, and correct for porpoising or

skipping (ASES, AMES)

PA.IV.A.S8 Avoid excessive water spray on the propeller(s) (ASES, AMES).

PA.IV.A.S9 Rotate and lift off at the recommended airspeed and accelerate to VY.

PA.IV.A.S10 [Archived]

PA.IV.A.S11 Establish a pitch attitude to maintain the manufacturer’s recommended speed or VY, +10/-5 knots.

PA.IV.A.S12 Configure the airplane in accordance with manufacturer’s guidance.

PA.IV.A.S13 Maintain VY +10/-5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.

PA.IV.A.S14 Maintain directional control and proper wind-drift correction throughout takeoff and climb.

PA.IV.A.S15 Comply with noise abatement procedures, as applicable.

Task B. Normal Approach and Landing

eferences: R AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-23, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

normal approach and landing with emphasis on proper use and coordination of flight controls.

ote: N If a crosswind condition does not exist, the applicant’s knowledge of crosswind elements must be

evaluated through oral testing.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.IV.B.K1 A stabilized approach, including energy management concepts.

PA.IV.B.K2 Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on approach and landing performance.

PA.IV.B.K3 Wind correction techniques on approach and landing.

Risk

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

PA.IV.B.R1 Selection of runway/landing surface, approach path, and touchdown area based on pilot capability,

aircraft performance and limitations, available distance, and wind.

PA.IV.B.R2 Effects of:

PA.IV.B.R2a a. Crosswind

PA.IV.B.R2b b. Windshear

PA.IV.B.R2c c. Tailwind

PA.IV.B.R2d d. Wake turbulence

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)20Area of Operation IV. Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds

PA.IV.B.R2e e. Landing surface/condition

PA.IV.B.R3 Planning for:

PA.IV.B.R3a a. Rejected landing and go-around

PA.IV.B.R3b b. Land and hold short operations (LAHSO)

PA.IV.B.R4 Collision hazards.

PA.IV.B.R5 Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

PA.IV.B.R6 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.IV.B.S1 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

PA.IV.B.S2 Make radio calls as appropriate.

PA.IV.B.S3 Ensure the airplane is aligned with the correct/assigned runway or landing surface.

PA.IV.B.S4 Scan the runway or landing surface and adjoining area for traffic and obstructions.

PA.IV.B.S5 Select and aim for a suitable touchdown point considering the wind conditions, landing surface, and

obstructions.

PA.IV.B.S6 Establish the recommended approach and landing configuration, airspeed, and trim, and adjust pitch

attitude and power as required to maintain a stabilized approach.

PA.IV.B.S7 Maintain manufacturer’s published approach airspeed or in its absence not more than 1.3 times the

stalling speed or the minimum steady flight speed in the landing configuration (VSO), +10/-5 knots with

gust factor applied.

PA.IV.B.S8 Maintain directional control and appropriate crosswind correction throughout the approach and

landing.

PA.IV.B.S9 Make smooth, timely, and correct control application during round out and touchdown.

PA.IV.B.S10 Touch down at a proper pitch attitude, within 400 feet beyond or on the specified point, with no side

drift, and with the airplane’s longitudinal axis aligned with and over the runway center/landing path.

PA.IV.B.S11 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.

PA.IV.B.S12 Use runway incursion avoidance procedures, if applicable.

Task C. Soft-Field Takeoff and Climb (ASEL)

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

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

soft-field takeoff, climb operations, and rejected takeoff procedures.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.IV.C.K1 Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on takeoff and climb performance.

PA.IV.C.K2 Best angle of climb speed (VX) and best rate of climb speed (VY).

PA.IV.C.K3 Appropriate airplane configuration.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)21Area of Operation IV. Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds

PA.IV.C.K4 Ground effect.

PA.IV.C.K5 Importance of weight transfer from wheels to wings.

PA.IV.C.K6 Left turning tendencies.

Risk

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

PA.IV.C.R1 Selection of runway based on pilot capability, airplane performance and limitations, available distance,

and wind.

PA.IV.C.R2 Effects of:

PA.IV.C.R2a a. Crosswind

PA.IV.C.R2b b. Windshear

PA.IV.C.R2c c. Tailwind

PA.IV.C.R2d d. Wake turbulence

PA.IV.C.R2e e. Takeoff surface/condition

PA.IV.C.R3 Abnormal operations, including planning for:

PA.IV.C.R3a a. Rejected takeoff

PA.IV.C.R3b b. Potential engine failure in takeoff/climb phase of flight

PA.IV.C.R4 Collision hazards.

PA.IV.C.R5 Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

PA.IV.C.R6 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.IV.C.S1 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

PA.IV.C.S2 Make radio calls as appropriate.

PA.IV.C.S3 Verify assigned/correct runway.

PA.IV.C.S4 Determine wind direction with or without visible wind direction indicators.

PA.IV.C.S5 Position the flight controls for the existing wind, if applicable.

PA.IV.C.S6 Clear the area, maintain necessary flight control inputs, taxi into takeoff position and align the airplane

on the runway centerline without stopping, while advancing the throttle smoothly to takeoff power.

PA.IV.C.S7 Confirm takeoff power and proper engine and flight instrument indications.

PA.IV.C.S8 Establish and maintain a pitch attitude that transfers the weight of the airplane from the wheels to the

wings as rapidly as possible.

PA.IV.C.S9 Lift off at the lowest possible airspeed and remain in ground effect while accelerating to VX or VY, as

appropriate.

PA.IV.C.S10 Establish a pitch attitude for VX or VY, as appropriate, and maintain selected airspeed +10/-5 knots

during the climb.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)22Area of Operation IV. Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds

PA.IV.C.S11 Configure the airplane after a positive rate of climb has been verified or in accordance with airplane

manufacturer’s instructions.

PA.IV.C.S12 Maintain VX or VY, as appropriate, +10/-5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.

PA.IV.C.S13 Maintain directional control and proper wind-drift correction throughout takeoff and climb.

PA.IV.C.S14 Comply with noise abatement procedures, as applicable.

Task D. Soft-Field Approach and Landing (ASEL)

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

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

soft-field approach and landing with emphasis on proper use and coordination of flight controls.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.IV.D.K1 A stabilized approach, including energy management concepts.

PA.IV.D.K2 Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on approach and landing performance.

PA.IV.D.K3 Wind correction techniques on approach and landing.

Risk

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

PA.IV.D.R1 Selection of runway based on pilot capability, airplane performance and limitations, available distance,

and wind.

PA.IV.D.R2 Effects of:

PA.IV.D.R2a a. Crosswind

PA.IV.D.R2b b. Windshear

PA.IV.D.R2c c. Tailwind

PA.IV.D.R2d d. Wake turbulence

PA.IV.D.R2e e. Landing surface/condition

PA.IV.D.R3 Planning for:

PA.IV.D.R3a a. Rejected landing and go-around

PA.IV.D.R3b b. Land and hold short operations (LAHSO)

PA.IV.D.R4 Collision hazards.

PA.IV.D.R5 Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

PA.IV.D.R6 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.IV.D.S1 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

PA.IV.D.S2 Make radio calls as appropriate.

PA.IV.D.S3 Ensure the airplane is aligned with the correct/assigned runway.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)23Area of Operation IV. Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds

PA.IV.D.S4 Scan the landing runway and adjoining area for traffic and obstructions.

PA.IV.D.S5 Select and aim for a suitable touchdown point considering the wind conditions, landing surface, and

obstructions.

PA.IV.D.S6 Establish the recommended approach and landing configuration, airspeed, and trim, and adjust pitch

attitude and power as required to maintain a stabilized approach.

PA.IV.D.S7 Maintain manufacturer’s published approach airspeed or in its absence not more than 1.3 VSO, +10/-5

knots with gust factor applied.

PA.IV.D.S8 Maintain directional control and appropriate crosswind correction throughout the approach and

landing.

PA.IV.D.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.

PA.IV.D.S10 Touch down at a proper pitch attitude with minimum sink rate, no side drift, and with the airplane’s

longitudinal axis aligned with the center of the runway.

PA.IV.D.S11 Maintain elevator as recommended by manufacturer during rollout and exit the “soft” area at a speed

that would preclude sinking into the surface.

PA.IV.D.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.

PA.IV.D.S13 Maintain proper position of the flight controls and sufficient speed to taxi while on the soft surface.

Task E. Short-Field Takeoff and Maximum Performance Climb (ASEL, AMEL)

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

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

short-field takeoff, maximum performance climb operations, and rejected takeoff procedures.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.IV.E.K1 Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on takeoff and climb performance.

PA.IV.E.K2 Best angle of climb speed (VX) and best rate of climb speed (VY).

PA.IV.E.K3 Appropriate airplane configuration.

Risk

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

PA.IV.E.R1 Selection of runway based on pilot capability, airplane performance and limitations, available distance,

and wind.

PA.IV.E.R2 Effects of:

PA.IV.E.R2a a. Crosswind

PA.IV.E.R2b b. Windshear

PA.IV.E.R2c c. Tailwind

PA.IV.E.R2d d. Wake turbulence

PA.IV.E.R2e e. Takeoff surface/condition

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)24Area of Operation IV. Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds

PA.IV.E.R3 Abnormal operations, including planning for:

PA.IV.E.R3a a. Rejected takeoff

PA.IV.E.R3b b. Potential engine failure in takeoff/climb phase of flight

PA.IV.E.R4 Collision hazards.

PA.IV.E.R5 Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

PA.IV.E.R6 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.IV.E.S1 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

PA.IV.E.S2 Make radio calls as appropriate.

PA.IV.E.S3 Verify assigned/correct runway.

PA.IV.E.S4 Determine wind direction with or without visible wind direction indicators.

PA.IV.E.S5 Position the flight controls for the existing wind, if applicable.

PA.IV.E.S6 Clear the area, taxi into takeoff position, and align the airplane on the runway centerline utilizing

maximum available takeoff area.

PA.IV.E.S7 Apply brakes while setting engine power to achieve maximum performance.

PA.IV.E.S8 Confirm takeoff power prior to brake release and verify proper engine and flight instrument indications

prior to rotation.

PA.IV.E.S9 Rotate and lift off at the recommended airspeed and accelerate to the recommended obstacle

clearance airspeed or VX, +10/-5 knots.

PA.IV.E.S10 Establish 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.S11 Establish 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.S12 Configure the airplane in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidance after a positive rate of climb

has been verified.

PA.IV.E.S13 Maintain VY +10/-5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.

PA.IV.E.S14 Maintain directional control and proper wind-drift correction throughout takeoff and climb.

PA.IV.E.S15 Comply with noise abatement procedures, as applicable.

Task F. Short-Field Approach and Landing (ASEL, AMEL)

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

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

short-field approach and landing with emphasis on proper use and coordination of flight controls.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.IV.F.K1 A stabilized approach, including energy management concepts.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)25Area of Operation IV. Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds

PA.IV.F.K2 Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on approach and landing performance.

PA.IV.F.K3 Wind correction techniques on approach and landing.

Risk

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

PA.IV.F.R1 Selection of runway based on pilot capability, airplane performance and limitations, available distance,

and wind.

PA.IV.F.R2 Effects of:

PA.IV.F.R2a a. Crosswind

PA.IV.F.R2b b. Windshear

PA.IV.F.R2c c. Tailwind

PA.IV.F.R2d d. Wake turbulence

PA.IV.F.R2e e. Landing surface/condition

PA.IV.F.R3 Planning for:

PA.IV.F.R3a a. Rejected landing and go-around

PA.IV.F.R3b b. Land and hold short operations (LAHSO)

PA.IV.F.R4 Collision hazards.

PA.IV.F.R5 Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

PA.IV.F.R6 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.IV.F.S1 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

PA.IV.F.S2 Make radio calls as appropriate.

PA.IV.F.S3 Ensure the airplane is aligned with the correct/assigned runway.

PA.IV.F.S4 Scan the landing runway and adjoining area for traffic and obstructions.

PA.IV.F.S5 Select and aim for a suitable touchdown point considering the wind conditions, landing surface, and

obstructions.

PA.IV.F.S6 Establish the recommended approach and landing configuration, airspeed, and trim, and adjust pitch

attitude and power as required to maintain a stabilized approach.

PA.IV.F.S7 Maintain manufacturer’s published approach airspeed or in its absence not more than 1.3 VSO, +10/-5

knots with gust factor applied.

PA.IV.F.S8 Maintain directional control and appropriate crosswind correction throughout the approach and

landing.

PA.IV.F.S9 Make smooth, timely, and correct control application before, during, and after touchdown.

PA.IV.F.S10 Touch down at a proper pitch attitude within 200 feet beyond or on the specified point, threshold

markings, or runway numbers, with no side drift, minimum float, and with the airplane's longitudinal

axis aligned with and over the runway centerline.

PA.IV.F.S11 Use manufacturer’s recommended procedures for airplane configuration and braking.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)26Area of Operation IV. Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds

PA.IV.F.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.

PA.IV.F.S13 Use runway incursion avoidance procedures, if applicable.

Task G. Confined Area Takeoff and Maximum Performance Climb (ASES, AMES)

eferences: R AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-23, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

confined area takeoff and maximum performance climb.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.IV.G.K1 Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on takeoff and climb performance.

PA.IV.G.K2 Best angle of climb speed (VX) and best rate of climb speed (VY).

PA.IV.G.K3 Appropriate airplane configuration.

PA.IV.G.K4 Effects of water surface.

Risk

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

PA.IV.G.R1 Selection of takeoff path based on pilot capability, airplane performance and limitations, available

distance, and wind.

PA.IV.G.R2 Effects of:

PA.IV.G.R2a a. Crosswind

PA.IV.G.R2b b. Windshear

PA.IV.G.R2c c. Tailwind

PA.IV.G.R2d d. Wake turbulence

PA.IV.G.R2e e. Water surface/condition

PA.IV.G.R3 Abnormal operations, including planning for:

PA.IV.G.R3a a. Rejected takeoff

PA.IV.G.R3b b. Potential engine failure in takeoff/climb phase of flight

PA.IV.G.R4 Collision hazards.

PA.IV.G.R5 Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

PA.IV.G.R6 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.IV.G.S1 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

PA.IV.G.S2 Make radio calls as appropriate.

PA.IV.G.S3 Verify assigned/correct takeoff path.

PA.IV.G.S4 Determine wind direction with or without visible wind direction indicators.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)27Area of Operation IV. Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds

PA.IV.G.S5 Position the flight controls for the existing wind, if applicable.

PA.IV.G.S6 Clear the area, taxi into takeoff position utilizing maximum available takeoff area, and align the airplane

on the takeoff path.

PA.IV.G.S6a a. Retract the water rudders, as appropriate

PA.IV.G.S7 Advance the throttle smoothly to takeoff power and confirm proper engine and flight instrument

indications prior to rotation.

PA.IV.G.S8 Establish a pitch attitude that maintains the most efficient planing/lift-off attitude and correct for

porpoising and skipping.

PA.IV.G.S9 Avoid excessive water spray on the propeller(s).

PA.IV.G.S10 Rotate and lift off at the recommended airspeed, and accelerate to the recommended obstacle

clearance airspeed or VX.

PA.IV.G.S11 Establish 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.G.S12 Establish 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.G.S13 Retract flaps, if extended, after a positive rate of climb has been verified or in accordance with airplane

manufacturer’s guidance.

PA.IV.G.S14 Maintain VY +10/-5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.

PA.IV.G.S15 Maintain directional control and proper wind-drift correction throughout takeoff and climb.

PA.IV.G.S16 Comply with noise abatement procedures, as applicable.

Task H. Confined Area Approach and Landing (ASES, AMES)

eferences: R AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-23, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

confined area approach and landing.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.IV.H.K1 A stabilized approach, including energy management concepts.

PA.IV.H.K2 Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on approach and landing performance.

PA.IV.H.K3 Wind correction techniques on approach and landing.

Risk

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

PA.IV.H.R1 Selection of approach path and touchdown area based on pilot capability, airplane performance and

limitations, available distance, and wind.

PA.IV.H.R2 Effects of:

PA.IV.H.R2a a. Crosswind

PA.IV.H.R2b b. Windshear

PA.IV.H.R2c c. Tailwind

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)28Area of Operation IV. Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds

PA.IV.H.R2d d. Wake turbulence

PA.IV.H.R2e e. Water surface/condition

PA.IV.H.R3 Planning for a go-around and rejected landing.

PA.IV.H.R4 Collision hazards.

PA.IV.H.R5 Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

PA.IV.H.R6 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.IV.H.S1 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

PA.IV.H.S2 Make radio calls as appropriate.

PA.IV.H.S3 Ensure the airplane is aligned for an approach to the correct/assigned landing surface.

PA.IV.H.S4 Scan the landing area for traffic and obstructions.

PA.IV.H.S5 Select and aim for a suitable touchdown point considering the wind conditions, landing surface, and

obstructions.

PA.IV.H.S6 Establish the recommended approach and landing configuration, airspeed, and trim, and adjust pitch

attitude and power as required to maintain a stabilized approach.

PA.IV.H.S7 Maintain manufacturer’s published approach airspeed or in its absence not more than 1.3 VSO, +10/-5

knots with gust factor applied.

PA.IV.H.S8 Maintain directional control and appropriate crosswind correction throughout the approach and

landing.

PA.IV.H.S9 Make smooth, timely, and correct control application before, during, and after touchdown.

PA.IV.H.S10 Contact the water at the recommended airspeed with a proper pitch attitude for the surface conditions.

PA.IV.H.S11 Touch down at a proper pitch attitude, within 200 feet beyond or on the specified point, with no side

drift, minimum float, and with the airplane’s longitudinal axis aligned with the projected landing path.

PA.IV.H.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.

PA.IV.H.S13 Apply elevator control as necessary to stop in the shortest distance consistent with safety.

Task I. Glassy Water Takeoff and Climb (ASES, AMES)

eferences: R AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-23, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

glassy water takeoff and climb.

ote: N If a glassy water condition does not exist, the applicant must be evaluated by simulating the T ask.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.IV.I.K1 Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on takeoff and climb performance.

PA.IV.I.K2 Best angle of climb speed (VX) and best rate of climb speed (VY).

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)29Area of Operation IV. Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds

PA.IV.I.K3 Appropriate airplane configuration.

PA.IV.I.K4 Appropriate use of glassy water takeoff and climb technique.

Risk

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

PA.IV.I.R1 Selection of takeoff path based on pilot capability, airplane performance and limitations, and available

distance.

PA.IV.I.R2 Water surface/condition.

PA.IV.I.R3 Abnormal operations, including planning for:

PA.IV.I.R3a a. Rejected takeoff

PA.IV.I.R3b b. Potential engine failure in takeoff/climb phase of flight

PA.IV.I.R4 Collision hazards.

PA.IV.I.R5 Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

PA.IV.I.R6 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.IV.I.R7 Gear position in an amphibious airplane.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.IV.I.S1 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

PA.IV.I.S2 Make radio calls as appropriate.

PA.IV.I.S3 Position flight controls and configure the aircraft for the existing conditions.

PA.IV.I.S4 Clear the area, select appropriate takeoff path considering surface hazards or vessels and surface

conditions:

PA.IV.I.S4a a. Retract the water rudders, as appropriate

PA.IV.I.S4b b. Advance the throttle smoothly to takeoff power and confirm proper engine and flight

instrument indications prior to rotation

PA.IV.I.S5 [Archived]

PA.IV.I.S6 Establish and maintain an appropriate planing attitude, directional control, and correct for porpoising,

skipping, and increase in water drag.

PA.IV.I.S7 Avoid excessive water spray on the propeller(s).

PA.IV.I.S8 Use appropriate techniques to lift seaplane from the water considering surface conditions.

PA.IV.I.S9 Establish proper attitude/airspeed and accelerate to VY +10/-5 knots during the climb.

PA.IV.I.S10 Configure the airplane after a positive rate of climb has been verified or in accordance with airplane

manufacturer’s instructions.

PA.IV.I.S11 Maintain VY +10/-5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.

PA.IV.I.S12 Maintain directional control throughout takeoff and climb.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)30Area of Operation IV. Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds

Task J. Glassy Water Approach and Landing (ASES, AMES)

eferences: R AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-23, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

glassy water approach and landing.

ote: N If a glassy water condition does not exist, the applicant must be evaluated by simulating the T ask.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.IV.J.K1 A stabilized approach, including energy management concepts.

PA.IV.J.K2 Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on approach and landing performance.

PA.IV.J.K3 When and why glassy water techniques are used.

PA.IV.J.K4 How a glassy water approach and landing is executed.

Risk

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

PA.IV.J.R1 Selection of approach path and touchdown area based on pilot capability, airplane performance and

limitations, and available distance.

PA.IV.J.R2 Water surface/condition.

PA.IV.J.R3 Planning for a go-around and rejected landing.

PA.IV.J.R4 Collision hazards.

PA.IV.J.R5 Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

PA.IV.J.R6 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.IV.J.R7 Gear position in an amphibious airplane.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.IV.J.S1 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

PA.IV.J.S2 Make radio calls as appropriate.

PA.IV.J.S3 Scan the landing area for traffic and obstructions.

PA.IV.J.S4 Select a proper approach and landing path considering the landing surface, visual attitude references,

water depth, and collision hazards.

PA.IV.J.S5 Establish the recommended approach and landing configuration, airspeed, and trim, and adjust pitch

attitude and power as required to maintain a stabilized approach.

PA.IV.J.S6 Maintain manufacturer’s published approach airspeed or in its absence not more than 1.3 VSO, +10/-5

knots.

PA.IV.J.S7 Make smooth, timely, and correct power and control adjustments to maintain proper pitch attitude and

rate of descent to touchdown.

PA.IV.J.S8 Contact the water in a proper pitch attitude, and slow to idle taxi speed.

PA.IV.J.S9 Maintain directional control throughout the approach and landing.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)31Area of Operation IV. Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds

Task K. Rough Water Takeoff and Climb (ASES, AMES)

eferences: R AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-23, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

rough water takeoff and climb.

ote: N If a rough water condition does not exist, the applicant must be evaluated by simulating the T ask.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.IV.K.K1 Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on takeoff and climb performance.

PA.IV.K.K2 Best angle of climb speed (VX) and best rate of climb speed (VY).

PA.IV.K.K3 Appropriate airplane configuration.

PA.IV.K.K4 Appropriate use of rough water takeoff and climb technique.

Risk

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

PA.IV.K.R1 Selection of takeoff path based on pilot capability, airplane performance and limitations, available

distance, and wind.

PA.IV.K.R2 Effects of:

PA.IV.K.R2a a. Crosswind

PA.IV.K.R2b b. Windshear

PA.IV.K.R2c c. Tailwind

PA.IV.K.R2d d. Wake turbulence

PA.IV.K.R2e e. Water surface/condition

PA.IV.K.R3 Abnormal operations, including planning for:

PA.IV.K.R3a a. Rejected takeoff

PA.IV.K.R3b b. Potential engine failure in takeoff/climb phase of flight

PA.IV.K.R4 Collision hazards.

PA.IV.K.R5 Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

PA.IV.K.R6 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.IV.K.R7 Gear position in an amphibious airplane.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.IV.K.S1 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

PA.IV.K.S2 Make radio calls as appropriate.

PA.IV.K.S3 Verify assigned/correct takeoff path.

PA.IV.K.S4 Determine wind direction with or without visible wind direction indicators.

PA.IV.K.S5 Position flight controls and configure the airplane for the existing conditions.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)32Area of Operation IV. Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds

PA.IV.K.S6 Clear the area, select an appropriate takeoff path considering wind, swells, surface hazards, or

vessels.

PA.IV.K.S6a a. Retract the water rudders, as appropriate

PA.IV.K.S6b b. Advance the throttle smoothly to takeoff power and confirm proper engine and flight

instrument indications prior to rotation

PA.IV.K.S7 [Archived]

PA.IV.K.S8 Establish and maintain an appropriate planing attitude, directional control, and correct for porpoising,

skipping, and increase in water drag.

PA.IV.K.S9 Avoid excessive water spray on the propeller(s).

PA.IV.K.S10 Lift off at minimum airspeed and accelerate to VY +10/- 5 knots before leaving ground effect.

PA.IV.K.S11 Configure the airplane after a positive rate of climb has been verified or in accordance with airplane

manufacturer’s instructions.

PA.IV.K.S12 Maintain VY +10/-5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.

PA.IV.K.S13 Maintain directional control and proper wind-drift correction throughout takeoff and climb.

Task L. Rough Water Approach and Landing (ASES, AMES)

eferences: R AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-23, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

rough water approach and landing.

ote: N If a rough water condition does not exist, the applicant must be evaluated by simulating the T ask.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.IV.L.K1 A stabilized approach, including energy management concepts.

PA.IV.L.K2 Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on approach and landing performance.

PA.IV.L.K3 Wind correction techniques on approach and landing.

PA.IV.L.K4 When and why rough water techniques are used.

PA.IV.L.K5 How to perform a proper rough water approach and landing.

Risk

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

PA.IV.L.R1 Selection of approach path and touchdown area based on pilot capability, airplane performance and

limitations, available distance, and wind.

PA.IV.L.R2 Effects of:

PA.IV.L.R2a a. Crosswind

PA.IV.L.R2b b. Windshear

PA.IV.L.R2c c. Tailwind

PA.IV.L.R2d d. Wake turbulence

PA.IV.L.R2e e. Water surface/condition

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)33Area of Operation IV. Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds

PA.IV.L.R3 Planning for a go-around and rejected landing.

PA.IV.L.R4 Collision hazards.

PA.IV.L.R5 Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

PA.IV.L.R6 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.IV.L.R7 Gear position in an amphibious airplane.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.IV.L.S1 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

PA.IV.L.S2 Make radio calls as appropriate.

PA.IV.L.S3 Ensure the airplane is aligned with the correct/assigned waterway.

PA.IV.L.S4 Scan the landing area for traffic and obstructions.

PA.IV.L.S5 Select and aim for a suitable touchdown point considering the wind conditions, landing surface, and

obstructions.

PA.IV.L.S6 Establish the recommended approach and landing configuration, airspeed, and trim, and adjust pitch

attitude and power as required to maintain a stabilized approach.

PA.IV.L.S7 Maintain manufacturer’s published approach airspeed or in its absence not more than 1.3 VSO, +10/-5

knots with gust factor applied.

PA.IV.L.S8 Maintain directional control and appropriate crosswind correction throughout the approach and

landing.

PA.IV.L.S9 Make smooth, timely, and correct power and control adjustments to maintain proper pitch attitude and

rate of descent to touchdown.

PA.IV.L.S10 Contact the water in a proper pitch attitude, considering the type of rough water.

Task M. Forward Slip to a Landing (ASEL, ASES)

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

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

forward slip to a landing.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.IV.M.K1 Concepts of energy management during a forward slip approach.

PA.IV.M.K2 Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on approach and landing performance.

PA.IV.M.K3 Wind correction techniques during forward slip.

PA.IV.M.K4 When and why a forward slip approach is used during an approach.

Risk

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

PA.IV.M.R1 Selection of runway/landing surface, approach path, and touchdown area based on pilot capability,

aircraft performance and limitations, available distance, and wind.

PA.IV.M.R2 Effects of:

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)34Area of Operation IV. Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds

PA.IV.M.R2a a. Crosswind

PA.IV.M.R2b b. Windshear

PA.IV.M.R2c c. Tailwind

PA.IV.M.R2d d. Wake turbulence

PA.IV.M.R2e e. Landing surface/condition

PA.IV.M.R3 Planning for:

PA.IV.M.R3a a. Rejected landing and go-around

PA.IV.M.R3b b. Land and hold short operations (LAHSO)

PA.IV.M.R4 Collision hazards.

PA.IV.M.R5 Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

PA.IV.M.R6 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.IV.M.R7 Forward slip operations, including fuel flowage, tail stalls with flaps, and airspeed control.

PA.IV.M.R8 Surface contact with the airplane’s longitudinal axis misaligned.

PA.IV.M.R9 Unstable approach.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.IV.M.S1 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

PA.IV.M.S2 Make radio calls as appropriate.

PA.IV.M.S3 Plan and follow a flightpath to the selected landing area considering altitude, wind, terrain, and

obstructions.

PA.IV.M.S4 Select the most suitable touchdown point based on wind, landing surface, obstructions, and airplane

limitations.

PA.IV.M.S5 Position airplane on downwind leg, parallel to landing runway or selected landing surface.

PA.IV.M.S6 Configure the airplane correctly.

PA.IV.M.S7 As necessary, correlate crosswind with direction of forward slip and transition to side slip before

touchdown.

PA.IV.M.S8 Touch down at a proper pitch attitude, within 400 feet beyond or on the specified point, with no side

drift, and with the airplane’s longitudinal axis aligned with and over the runway center/landing path.

PA.IV.M.S9 Maintain a ground track aligned with the runway center/landing path.

Task N. Go-Around/Rejected Landing

eferences: R AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-23, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

go-around/rejected landing with emphasis on factors that contribute to landing conditions that may require

a go-around.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)35Area of Operation IV. Takeoffs, Landings, and Go-Arounds

PA.IV.N.K1 A stabilized approach, including energy management concepts.

PA.IV.N.K2 Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind and density altitude, on a go-around or rejected

landing.

PA.IV.N.K3 Wind correction techniques on takeoff/departure and approach/landing.

Risk

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

PA.IV.N.R1 Delayed recognition of the need for a go-around/rejected landing.

PA.IV.N.R2 Delayed performance of a go-around at low altitude.

PA.IV.N.R3 Power application.

PA.IV.N.R4 Configuring the airplane.

PA.IV.N.R5 Collision hazards.

PA.IV.N.R6 Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

PA.IV.N.R7 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.IV.N.R8 Runway incursion.

PA.IV.N.R9 Managing a go-around/rejected landing after accepting a LAHSO clearance.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.IV.N.S1 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

PA.IV.N.S2 Make radio calls as appropriate.

PA.IV.N.S3 Make a timely decision to discontinue the approach to landing.

PA.IV.N.S4 Apply takeoff power immediately and transition to climb pitch attitude for VX or VY as appropriate +10/-5

knots.

PA.IV.N.S5 Configure the airplane after a positive rate of climb has been verified or in accordance with airplane

manufacturer’s instructions.

PA.IV.N.S6 Maneuver to the side of the runway/landing area when necessary to clear and avoid conflicting traffic.

PA.IV.N.S7 Maintain VY +10/-5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.

PA.IV.N.S8 Maintain directional control and proper wind-drift correction throughout the climb.

PA.IV.N.S9 Use runway incursion avoidance procedures, if applicable.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)36Area of Operation V. Performance Maneuvers and Ground Reference Maneuvers

Area of Operation V. Performance Maneuvers and Ground Reference Maneuvers

Task A. Steep Turns

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

steep turns.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.V.A.K1 How to conduct a proper steep turn.

PA.V.A.K2 Aerodynamics associated with steep turns, including:

PA.V.A.K2a a. Maintaining coordinated flight

PA.V.A.K2b b. Overbanking tendencies

PA.V.A.K2c c. Maneuvering speed, including the impact of weight changes

PA.V.A.K2d d. Load factor and accelerated stalls

PA.V.A.K2e e. Rate and radius of turn

Risk

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

PA.V.A.R1 Division of attention between aircraft control and orientation.

PA.V.A.R2 Collision hazards.

PA.V.A.R3 Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

PA.V.A.R4 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.V.A.R5 Uncoordinated flight.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.V.A.S1 Clear the area.

PA.V.A.S2 Establish the manufacturer's recommended airspeed; or if one is not available, an airspeed not to

exceed the maneuvering speed (VA).

PA.V.A.S3 Roll into a coordinated 360° steep turn with approximately a 45° bank.

PA.V.A.S4 Perform the Task in the opposite direction, as specified by evaluator.

PA.V.A.S5 Maintain the entry altitude ±100 feet, airspeed ±10 knots, bank ±5°, and roll out on the entry heading

±10°.

Task B. Ground Reference Maneuvers

eferences: R 14 CFR part 61; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

ground reference maneuvering which may include a rectangular course, S-turns, and turns around a

point.

ote: N The evaluator selects at least one ground reference maneuver for the applicant to demonstrate.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)37Area of Operation V. Performance Maneuvers and Ground Reference Maneuvers

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.V.B.K1 Purpose of ground reference maneuvers.

PA.V.B.K2 Effects of wind on ground track and relation to a ground reference.

PA.V.B.K3 Effects of bank angle and groundspeed on rate and radius of turn.

PA.V.B.K4 Relationship of rectangular course to airport traffic pattern.

Risk

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

PA.V.B.R1 Division of attention between aircraft control and orientation.

PA.V.B.R2 Collision hazards.

PA.V.B.R3 Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

PA.V.B.R4 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.V.B.R5 Uncoordinated flight.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.V.B.S1 Clear the area.

PA.V.B.S2 Select a suitable ground reference area, line, or point as appropriate.

PA.V.B.S3 Plan the maneuver:

PA.V.B.S3a a. Rectangular course: enter a left or right pattern, 600 to 1,000 feet above ground level (AGL) at

an appropriate distance from the selected reference area, 45° to the downwind leg

PA.V.B.S3b b. S-turns: enter perpendicular to the selected reference line, 600 to 1,000 feet AGL at an

appropriate distance from the selected reference area

PA.V.B.S3c c. Turns around a point: enter at an appropriate distance from the reference point, 600 to 1,000

feet AGL at an appropriate distance from the selected reference area

PA.V.B.S4 Apply adequate wind-drift correction during straight and turning flight to maintain a constant ground

track around a rectangular reference area, or to maintain a constant radius turn on each side of a

selected reference line or point.

PA.V.B.S5 If performing S-Turns, reverse the turn directly over the selected reference line; if performing turns

around a point, complete turns in either direction, as specified by the evaluator.

PA.V.B.S6 Divide attention between airplane control, traffic avoidance and the ground track while maintaining

coordinated flight.

PA.V.B.S7 Maintain altitude ±100 feet; maintain airspeed ±10 knots.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)38Area of Operation VI. Navigation

Area of Operation VI. Navigation

Task A. Pilotage and Dead Reckoning

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; VFR Navigation Charts

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

pilotage and dead reckoning.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.VI.A.K1 Pilotage and dead reckoning.

PA.VI.A.K2 Magnetic compass errors.

PA.VI.A.K3 Topography.

PA.VI.A.K4 Selection of appropriate:

PA.VI.A.K4a a. Route

PA.VI.A.K4b b. Altitude(s)

PA.VI.A.K4c c. Checkpoints

PA.VI.A.K5 Plotting a course, including:

PA.VI.A.K5a a. Determining heading, speed, and course

PA.VI.A.K5b b. Wind correction angle

PA.VI.A.K5c c. Estimating time, speed, and distance

PA.VI.A.K5d d. True airspeed and density altitude

PA.VI.A.K6 Power setting selection.

PA.VI.A.K7 Planned calculations versus actual results and required corrections.

Risk

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

PA.VI.A.R1 Collision hazards.

PA.VI.A.R2 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.VI.A.R3 Unplanned fuel/power consumption, if applicable.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.VI.A.S1 Prepare and use a flight log.

PA.VI.A.S2 Navigate by pilotage.

PA.VI.A.S3 Navigate by means of pre-computed headings, groundspeeds, elapsed time, and reference to

landmarks or checkpoints.

PA.VI.A.S4 Use the magnetic direction indicator in navigation, including turns to headings.

PA.VI.A.S5 Verify position within three nautical miles of the flight-planned route.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)39Area of Operation VI. Navigation

PA.VI.A.S6 Arrive at the en route checkpoints within five minutes of the initial or revised estimated time of arrival

(ETA) and provide a destination estimate.

PA.VI.A.S7 Maintain the selected altitude, ±200 feet and heading, ±15°.

Task B. Navigation Systems and Radar Services

eferences: R AC 91-78; AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

navigation systems and radar services.

ote: N The evaluator should reference the manufacturer’s equipment supplement(s) as necessary for

appropriate limitations, procedures, etc.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.VI.B.K1 Ground-based navigation (identification, orientation, course determination, equipment, tests,

regulations, interference, appropriate use of navigation data, and signal integrity).

PA.VI.B.K2 Satellite-based navigation (e.g., equipment, regulations, authorized use of databases, and Receiver

Autonomous Integrity Monitoring (RAIM)).

PA.VI.B.K3 Radar assistance to visual flight rules (VFR) aircraft (e.g., operations, equipment, available services,

traffic advisories).

PA.VI.B.K4 Transponder (Mode(s) A, C, and S) and Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B).

Risk

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

PA.VI.B.R1 Management of automated navigation and autoflight systems.

PA.VI.B.R2 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.VI.B.R3 Limitations of the navigation system in use.

PA.VI.B.R4 Loss of a navigation signal.

PA.VI.B.R5 Use of an electronic flight bag (EFB), if used.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.VI.B.S1 Use an airborne electronic navigation system.

PA.VI.B.S2 Determine the airplane’s position using the navigation system.

PA.VI.B.S3 Intercept and track a given course, radial, or bearing.

PA.VI.B.S4 Recognize and describe the indication of station or waypoint passage.

PA.VI.B.S5 Recognize signal loss or interference and take appropriate action, if applicable.

PA.VI.B.S6 Use proper communication procedures when utilizing radar services.

PA.VI.B.S7 Maintain the selected altitude, ±200 feet and heading, ±15°.

Task C. Diversion

eferences: R AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; VFR Navigation Charts

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)40Area of Operation VI. Navigation

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

diversion.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.VI.C.K1 Selecting an alternate destination.

PA.VI.C.K2 Situations that require deviations from flight plan or air traffic control (ATC) instructions.

Risk

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

PA.VI.C.R1 Collision hazards.

PA.VI.C.R2 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.VI.C.R3 Circumstances that would make diversion prudent.

PA.VI.C.R4 Selecting an appropriate airport or seaplane base.

PA.VI.C.R5 Using available resources (e.g., automation, ATC, and flight deck planning aids).

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.VI.C.S1 Select a suitable destination and route for diversion.

PA.VI.C.S2 Make a reasonable estimate of heading, groundspeed, arrival time, and fuel required to the “divert to”

destination.

PA.VI.C.S3 Maintain the selected altitude, ±200 feet and heading, ±15°.

PA.VI.C.S4 Update/interpret weather in flight.

PA.VI.C.S5 Use displays of digital weather and aeronautical information, as applicable to maintain situational

awareness.

PA.VI.C.S6 Promptly divert toward the destination.

Task D. Lost Procedures

eferences: R AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; VFR Navigation Charts

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

lost procedures and can take appropriate steps to achieve a satisfactory outcome if lost.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.VI.D.K1 Methods to determine position.

PA.VI.D.K2 Assistance available if lost (e.g., radar services, communication procedures).

Risk

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

PA.VI.D.R1 Collision hazards.

PA.VI.D.R2 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.VI.D.R3 Recording times over waypoints.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)41Area of Operation VI. Navigation

PA.VI.D.R4 When to seek assistance or declare an emergency in a deteriorating situation.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.VI.D.S1 Use an appropriate method to determine position.

PA.VI.D.S2 Maintain an appropriate heading and climb as necessary.

PA.VI.D.S3 Identify prominent landmarks.

PA.VI.D.S4 Use navigation systems/facilities or contact an ATC facility for assistance.

PA.VI.D.S5 Select an appropriate course of action.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)42Area of Operation VII. Slow Flight and Stalls

Area of Operation VII. Slow Flight and Stalls

Task A. Maneuvering During Slow Flight

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

maneuvering during slow flight in cruise configuration.

ote: N See Appendix 2: Safety of Flight and Appendix 3: Aircraft, Equipment, and Operational Requirements &

Limitations for information related to this Task.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.VII.A.K1 Aerodynamics associated with slow flight in various airplane configurations, including the relationship

between angle of attack, airspeed, load factor, power setting, airplane weight and center of gravity,

airplane attitude, and yaw effects.

Risk

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

PA.VII.A.R1 Inadvertent slow flight and flight with a stall warning, which could lead to loss of control.

PA.VII.A.R2 Range and limitations of stall warning indicators (e.g., aircraft buffet, stall horn, etc.).

PA.VII.A.R3 Uncoordinated flight.

PA.VII.A.R4 Effect of environmental elements on airplane performance (e.g., turbulence, microbursts, and high-

density altitude).

PA.VII.A.R5 Collision hazards.

PA.VII.A.R6 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.VII.A.S1 Clear the area.

PA.VII.A.S2 Select an entry altitude that allows the Task to be completed no lower than 1,500 feet above ground

level (AGL) (ASEL, ASES) or 3,000 feet AGL (AMEL, AMES).

PA.VII.A.S3 Establish and maintain an airspeed at which any further increase in angle of attack, increase in load

factor, or reduction in power, would result in a stall warning (e.g., aircraft buffet, stall horn, etc.).

PA.VII.A.S4 Accomplish coordinated straight-and-level flight, turns, climbs, and descents with the aircraft

configured as specified by the evaluator without a stall warning (e.g., aircraft buffet, stall horn, etc.).

PA.VII.A.S5 Maintain the specified altitude, ±100 feet; specified heading, ±10°; airspeed, +10/-0 knots; and

specified angle of bank, ±10°.

Task B. Power-Off Stalls

eferences: R AC 61-67; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

power-off stalls.

ote: N See Appendix 2: Safety of Flight and Appendix 3: Aircraft, Equipment, and Operational Requirements &

Limitations for information related to this Task.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)43Area of Operation VII. Slow Flight and Stalls

PA.VII.B.K1 Aerodynamics associated with stalls in various airplane configurations, including the relationship

between angle of attack, airspeed, load factor, power setting, airplane weight and center of gravity,

airplane attitude, and yaw effects.

PA.VII.B.K2 Stall characteristics as they relate to airplane design, and recognition impending stall and full stall

indications using sight, sound, or feel.

PA.VII.B.K3 Factors and situations that can lead to a power-off stall and actions that can be taken to prevent it.

PA.VII.B.K4 Fundamentals of stall recovery.

Risk

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

PA.VII.B.R1 Factors and situations that could lead to an inadvertent power-off stall, spin, and loss of control.

PA.VII.B.R2 Range and limitations of stall warning indicators (e.g., aircraft buffet, stall horn, etc.).

PA.VII.B.R3 Stall warning(s) during normal operations.

PA.VII.B.R4 Stall recovery procedure.

PA.VII.B.R5 Secondary stalls, accelerated stalls, and cross-control stalls.

PA.VII.B.R6 Effect of environmental elements on airplane performance related to power-off stalls (e.g., turbulence,

microbursts, and high-density altitude).

PA.VII.B.R7 Collision hazards.

PA.VII.B.R8 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.VII.B.S1 Clear the area.

PA.VII.B.S2 Select an entry altitude that allows the Task to be completed no lower than 1,500 feet above ground

level (AGL) (ASEL, ASES) or 3,000 feet AGL (AMEL, AMES).

PA.VII.B.S3 Configure the airplane in the approach or landing configuration, as specified by the evaluator, and

maintain coordinated flight throughout the maneuver.

PA.VII.B.S4 Establish a stabilized descent.

PA.VII.B.S5 Transition smoothly from the approach or landing attitude to a pitch attitude that induces a stall.

PA.VII.B.S6 Maintain a specified heading ±10° if in straight flight; maintain a specified angle of bank not to exceed

20°, ±10° if in turning flight, while inducing the stall.

PA.VII.B.S7 Acknowledge cues of the impending stall and then recover promptly after a full stall occurs.

PA.VII.B.S8 Execute a stall recovery in accordance with procedures set forth in the Pilot's Operating Handbook

(POH) or Airplane Flight Manual (AFM).

PA.VII.B.S9 Configure the airplane as recommended by the manufacturer, and accelerate to best angle of climb

speed (VX) or best rate of climb speed (VY).

PA.VII.B.S10 Return to the altitude, heading, and airspeed specified by the evaluator.

PA.VII.B.S11 Use single-pilot resource management (SRM) or crew resource management (CRM), as appropriate.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)44Area of Operation VII. Slow Flight and Stalls

Task C. Power-On Stalls

eferences: R AC 61-67; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

power-on stalls.

ote: N See Appendix 2: Safety of Flight and Appendix 3: Aircraft, Equipment, and Operational Requirements &

Limitations for information related to this Task.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.VII.C.K1 Aerodynamics associated with stalls in various airplane configurations, including the relationship

between angle of attack, airspeed, load factor, power setting, airplane weight and center of gravity,

airplane attitude, and yaw effects.

PA.VII.C.K2 Stall characteristics as they relate to airplane design, and recognition impending stall and full stall

indications using sight, sound, or feel.

PA.VII.C.K3 Factors and situations that can lead to a power-on stall and actions that can be taken to prevent it.

PA.VII.C.K4 Fundamentals of stall recovery.

Risk

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

PA.VII.C.R1 Factors and situations that could lead to an inadvertent power-on stall, spin, and loss of control.

PA.VII.C.R2 Range and limitations of stall warning indicators (e.g., aircraft buffet, stall horn, etc.).

PA.VII.C.R3 Stall warning(s) during normal operations.

PA.VII.C.R4 Stall recovery procedure.

PA.VII.C.R5 Secondary stalls, accelerated stalls, elevator trim stalls, and cross-control stalls.

PA.VII.C.R6 Effect of environmental elements on airplane performance related to power-on stalls (e.g., turbulence,

microbursts, and high-density altitude).

PA.VII.C.R7 Collision hazards.

PA.VII.C.R8 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.VII.C.S1 Clear the area.

PA.VII.C.S2 Select an entry altitude that allows the Task to be completed no lower than 1,500 feet above ground

level (AGL) (ASEL, ASES) or 3,000 feet AGL (AMEL, AMES).

PA.VII.C.S3 Establish the takeoff, departure, or cruise configuration, as specified by the evaluator, and maintain

coordinated flight throughout the maneuver.

PA.VII.C.S4 Set power (as assigned by the evaluator) to no less than 65 percent power.

PA.VII.C.S5 Transition smoothly from the takeoff or departure attitude to the pitch attitude that induces a stall.

PA.VII.C.S6 Maintain a specified heading, ±10° if in straight flight; maintain a specified angle of bank not to exceed

20°, ±10° if in turning flight, while inducing the stall.

PA.VII.C.S7 Acknowledge cues of the impending stall and then recover promptly after a full stall occurs.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)45Area of Operation VII. Slow Flight and Stalls

PA.VII.C.S8 Execute a stall recovery in accordance with procedures set forth in the Pilot's Operating Handbook

(POH)/Flight Manual (FM).

PA.VII.C.S9 Configure the airplane as recommended by the manufacturer, and accelerate to best angle of climb

speed (VX) or best rate of climb speed (VY).

PA.VII.C.S10 Return to the altitude, heading, and airspeed specified by the evaluator.

PA.VII.C.S11 Use single-pilot resource management (SRM) or crew resource management (CRM), as appropriate.

Task D. Spin Awareness

eferences: R AC 61-67; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge of the causes and procedures for recovery

from unintentional spins and understands the risk associated with unintentional spins.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.VII.D.K1 Aerodynamics associated with spins in various airplane configurations, including the relationship

between angle of attack, airspeed, load factor, power setting, airplane weight and center of gravity,

airplane attitude, and yaw effects.

PA.VII.D.K2 What causes a spin and how to identify the entry, incipient, and developed phases of a spin.

PA.VII.D.K3 Spin recovery procedure.

Risk

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

PA.VII.D.R1 Factors and situations that could lead to inadvertent spin and loss of control.

PA.VII.D.R2 Range and limitations of stall warning indicators (e.g., aircraft buffet, stall horn, etc.).

PA.VII.D.R3 Spin recovery procedure.

PA.VII.D.R4 Effect of environmental elements on airplane performance related to spins (e.g., turbulence,

microbursts, and high-density altitude).

PA.VII.D.R5 Collision hazards.

PA.VII.D.R6 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

[Intentionally left blank].

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)46Area of Operation VIII. Basic Instrument Maneuvers

Area of Operation VIII. Basic Instrument Maneuvers

Task A. Straight-and-Level Flight

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-15, FAA-H-8083-25

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

flying during straight-and-level flight solely by reference to instruments.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.VIII.A.K1 Flight instruments as they relate to:

PA.VIII.A.K1a a. Instrument limitations and potential errors

PA.VIII.A.K1b b. Indication of the aircraft attitude

PA.VIII.A.K1c c. Function and operation

PA.VIII.A.K1d d. Proper instrument cross-check techniques

Risk

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

PA.VIII.A.R1 Instrument flying hazards, including failure to maintain visual flight rules (VFR), spatial disorientation,

loss of control, fatigue, stress, and emergency off airport landings.

PA.VIII.A.R2 When to seek assistance or declare an emergency in a deteriorating situation.

PA.VIII.A.R3 Collision hazards.

PA.VIII.A.R4 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.VIII.A.R5 Fixation and omission.

PA.VIII.A.R6 Instrument Interpretation.

PA.VIII.A.R7 Control application solely by reference to instruments.

PA.VIII.A.R8 Trimming the aircraft.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.VIII.A.S1 Maintain straight-and-level flight using proper instrument cross-check and interpretation, and

coordinated control application.

PA.VIII.A.S2 Maintain altitude ±200 feet, heading ±20°, and airspeed ±10 knots.

Task B. Constant Airspeed Climbs

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-15, FAA-H-8083-25

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

attitude instrument flying during constant airspeed climbs solely by reference to instruments.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.VIII.B.K1 Flight instruments as they relate to:

PA.VIII.B.K1a a. Instrument limitations and potential errors

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)47Area of Operation VIII. Basic Instrument Maneuvers

PA.VIII.B.K1b b. Indication of the aircraft attitude

PA.VIII.B.K1c c. Function and operation

PA.VIII.B.K1d d. Proper instrument cross-check techniques

Risk

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

PA.VIII.B.R1 Instrument flying hazards, including failure to maintain visual flight rules (VFR), spatial disorientation,

loss of control, fatigue, stress, and emergency off airport landings.

PA.VIII.B.R2 When to seek assistance or declare an emergency in a deteriorating situation.

PA.VIII.B.R3 Collision hazards.

PA.VIII.B.R4 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.VIII.B.R5 Fixation and omission.

PA.VIII.B.R6 Instrument Interpretation.

PA.VIII.B.R7 Control application solely by reference to instruments.

PA.VIII.B.R8 Trimming the aircraft.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.VIII.B.S1 Transition to the climb pitch attitude and power setting on an assigned heading using proper

instrument cross-check and interpretation, and coordinated flight control application.

PA.VIII.B.S2 Climb at a constant airspeed to specific altitudes in straight flight and turns.

PA.VIII.B.S3 Level off at the assigned altitude and maintain altitude ±200 feet, heading ±20°, and airspeed ±10

knots.

Task C. Constant Airspeed Descents

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-15, FAA-H-8083-25

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

attitude instrument flying during constant airspeed descents solely by reference to instruments.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.VIII.C.K1 Flight instruments as they relate to:

PA.VIII.C.K1a a. Instrument limitations and potential errors

PA.VIII.C.K1b b. Indication of the aircraft attitude

PA.VIII.C.K1c c. Function and operation

PA.VIII.C.K1d d. Proper instrument cross-check techniques

Risk

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

PA.VIII.C.R1 Instrument flying hazards, including failure to maintain visual flight rules (VFR), spatial disorientation,

loss of control, fatigue, stress, and emergency off airport landings.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)48Area of Operation VIII. Basic Instrument Maneuvers

PA.VIII.C.R2 When to seek assistance or declare an emergency in a deteriorating situation.

PA.VIII.C.R3 Collision hazards.

PA.VIII.C.R4 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.VIII.C.R5 Fixation and omission.

PA.VIII.C.R6 Instrument Interpretation.

PA.VIII.C.R7 Control application solely by reference to instruments.

PA.VIII.C.R8 Trimming the aircraft.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.VIII.C.S1 Transition to the descent pitch attitude and power setting on an assigned heading using proper

instrument cross-check and interpretation, and coordinated flight control application.

PA.VIII.C.S2 Descend at a constant airspeed to specific altitudes in straight flight and turns.

PA.VIII.C.S3 Level off at the assigned altitude and maintain altitude ±200 feet, heading ±20°, and airspeed ±10

knots.

Task D. Turns to Headings

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-15, FAA-H-8083-25

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

attitude instrument flying during turns to headings solely by reference to instruments.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.VIII.D.K1 Flight instruments as they relate to:

PA.VIII.D.K1a a. Instrument limitations and potential errors

PA.VIII.D.K1b b. Indication of the aircraft attitude

PA.VIII.D.K1c c. Function and operation

PA.VIII.D.K1d d. Proper instrument cross-check techniques

Risk

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

PA.VIII.D.R1 Instrument flying hazards, including failure to maintain visual flight rules (VFR), spatial disorientation,

loss of control, fatigue, stress, and emergency off airport landings.

PA.VIII.D.R2 When to seek assistance or declare an emergency in a deteriorating situation.

PA.VIII.D.R3 Collision hazards.

PA.VIII.D.R4 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.VIII.D.R5 Fixation and omission.

PA.VIII.D.R6 Instrument Interpretation.

PA.VIII.D.R7 Control application solely by reference to instruments.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)49Area of Operation VIII. Basic Instrument Maneuvers

PA.VIII.D.R8 Trimming the aircraft.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.VIII.D.S1 Turn to headings, maintain altitude ±200 feet, maintain a standard rate turn, roll out on the assigned

heading ±10°, and maintain airspeed ±10 knots.

Task E. Recovery from Unusual Flight Attitudes

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-15, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/Flight Manual

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

attitude instrument flying while recovering from unusual attitudes solely by reference to instruments.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.VIII.E.K1 Prevention of unusual attitudes, including flight causal, physiological, and environmental factors, and

system and equipment failures.

PA.VIII.E.K1a a. [Archived]

PA.VIII.E.K1b b. [Archived]

PA.VIII.E.K1c c. [Archived]

PA.VIII.E.K1d d. [Archived]

PA.VIII.E.K2 Procedures for recovery from unusual attitudes in flight.

PA.VIII.E.K3 Procedures available to safely regain visual meteorological conditions (VMC) after flight into

inadvertent instrument meteorological conditions or unintended instrument meteorological conditions

(IIMC)/(UIMC).

PA.VIII.E.K4 Appropriate use of automation, if applicable.

Risk

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

PA.VIII.E.R1 Situations that could lead to loss of control in-flight (LOC-I) or unusual attitudes in-flight (e.g., stress,

task saturation, inadequate instrument scan distractions, and spatial disorientation).

PA.VIII.E.R2 [Archived]

PA.VIII.E.R3 Collision hazards.

PA.VIII.E.R4 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.VIII.E.R5 Interpreting flight instruments.

PA.VIII.E.R6 [Archived]

PA.VIII.E.R7 Operating envelope considerations.

PA.VIII.E.R8 Control input errors, inducing undesired aircraft attitudes.

PA.VIII.E.R9 Assessment of the unusual attitude.

PA.VIII.E.R10 Control application solely by reference to instruments.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)50Area of Operation VIII. Basic Instrument Maneuvers

PA.VIII.E.S1 Use proper instrument cross-check and interpretation to identify an unusual attitude (including both

nose-high and nose-low) in flight, and apply the appropriate flight control, power input, and aircraft

configuration in the correct sequence, to return to a stabilized level flight attitude.

PA.VIII.E.S2 Use single-pilot resource management (SRM) or crew resource management (CRM), as appropriate.

Task F. Radio Communications, Navigation Systems/Facilities, and Radar Services

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-15, FAA-H-8083-25

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

radio communications, navigation systems/facilities, and radar services available for use during flight

solely by reference to instruments.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.VIII.F.K1 Operating communications equipment, including identifying and selecting radio frequencies,

requesting and following air traffic control (ATC) instructions.

PA.VIII.F.K2 Operating navigation equipment, including functions and displays, and following bearings, radials, or

courses.

PA.VIII.F.K3 Air traffic control facilities and services.

Risk

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

PA.VIII.F.R1 When to seek assistance or declare an emergency in a deteriorating situation.

PA.VIII.F.R2 Using available resources (e.g., automation, ATC, and flight deck planning aids).

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.VIII.F.S1 Maintain airplane control while selecting proper communications frequencies, identifying the

appropriate facility, and managing navigation equipment.

PA.VIII.F.S2 Comply with ATC instructions.

PA.VIII.F.S3 [Archived]

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)51Area of Operation IX. Emergency Operations

Area of Operation IX. Emergency Operations

Task A. Emergency Descent

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

emergency descent.

ote: N See Appendix 2: Safety of Flight.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.IX.A.K1 Situations that would require an emergency descent (e.g., depressurization, smoke, or engine fire).

PA.IX.A.K2 Immediate action items and emergency procedures.

PA.IX.A.K3 Airspeed, including airspeed limitations.

PA.IX.A.K4 Aircraft performance and limitations.

Risk

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

PA.IX.A.R1 Altitude, wind, terrain, obstructions, gliding distance, and available landing distance considerations.

PA.IX.A.R2 Collision hazards.

PA.IX.A.R3 Configuring the airplane.

PA.IX.A.R4 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.IX.A.S1 Clear the area.

PA.IX.A.S2 Establish and maintain the appropriate airspeed and configuration appropriate to the scenario

specified by the evaluator and as covered in Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH)/Airplane Flight Manual

(AFM) for the emergency descent.

PA.IX.A.S3 Maintain orientation, divide attention appropriately, and plan and execute a smooth recovery.

PA.IX.A.S4 Use bank angle between 30° and 45° to maintain positive load factors during the descent.

PA.IX.A.S5 Maintain appropriate airspeed +0/-10 knots, and level off at a specified altitude ±100 feet.

PA.IX.A.S6 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

PA.IX.A.S7 Make radio calls as appropriate.

PA.IX.A.S8 Use single-pilot resource management (SRM) or crew resource management (CRM), as appropriate.

Task B. Emergency Approach and Landing (Simulated) (ASEL, ASES)

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

emergency approach and landing procedures.

ote: N See Appendix 2: Safety of Flight.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)52Area of Operation IX. Emergency Operations

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.IX.B.K1 Immediate action items and emergency procedures.

PA.IX.B.K2 Airspeed, including:

PA.IX.B.K2a a. Importance of best glide speed and its relationship to distance

PA.IX.B.K2b b. Difference between best glide speed and minimum sink speed

PA.IX.B.K2c c. Effects of wind on glide distance

PA.IX.B.K3 Effects of atmospheric conditions on emergency approach and landing.

PA.IX.B.K4 A stabilized approach, including energy management concepts.

PA.IX.B.K5 Emergency Locator Transmitters (ELTs) and other emergency locating devices.

PA.IX.B.K6 Air traffic control (ATC) services to aircraft in distress.

Risk

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

PA.IX.B.R1 Altitude, wind, terrain, obstructions, gliding distance, and available landing distance considerations.

PA.IX.B.R2 Following or changing the planned flightpath to the selected landing area.

PA.IX.B.R3 Collision hazards.

PA.IX.B.R4 Configuring the airplane.

PA.IX.B.R5 Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

PA.IX.B.R6 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.IX.B.S1 Establish and maintain the recommended best glide airspeed, ±10 knots.

PA.IX.B.S2 Configure the airplane in accordance with the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH)\Airplane Flight

Manual (AFM) and existing conditions.

PA.IX.B.S3 Select a suitable landing area considering altitude, wind, terrain, obstructions, and available glide

distance.

PA.IX.B.S4 Plan and follow a flightpath to the selected landing area considering altitude, wind, terrain, and

obstructions.

PA.IX.B.S5 Prepare for landing as specified by the evaluator.

PA.IX.B.S6 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

Task C. Systems and Equipment Malfunctions

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

system and equipment malfunctions appropriate to the airplane provided for the practical test.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)53Area of Operation IX. Emergency Operations

PA.IX.C.K1 Causes of partial or complete power loss related to the specific type of powerplant(s).

PA.IX.C.K1a a. [Archived]

PA.IX.C.K1b b. [Archived]

PA.IX.C.K1c c. [Archived]

PA.IX.C.K1d d. [Archived]

PA.IX.C.K2 System and equipment malfunctions specific to the aircraft, including:

PA.IX.C.K2a a. Electrical malfunction

PA.IX.C.K2b b. Vacuum/pressure and associated flight instrument malfunctions

PA.IX.C.K2c c. Pitot-static system malfunction

PA.IX.C.K2d d. Electronic flight deck display malfunction

PA.IX.C.K2e e. Landing gear or flap malfunction

PA.IX.C.K2f f. Inoperative trim

PA.IX.C.K3 Causes and remedies for smoke or fire onboard the aircraft.

PA.IX.C.K4 Any other system specific to the aircraft (e.g., supplemental oxygen, deicing).

PA.IX.C.K5 Inadvertent door or window opening.

Risk

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

PA.IX.C.R1 Checklist usage for a system or equipment malfunction.

PA.IX.C.R2 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.IX.C.R3 Undesired aircraft state.

PA.IX.C.R4 Startle response.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.IX.C.S1 Determine appropriate action for simulated emergencies specified by the evaluator, from at least three

of the elements or sub-elements listed in K1 through K5.

PA.IX.C.S2 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

Task D. Emergency Equipment and Survival Gear

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

emergency equipment, and survival gear appropriate to the airplane and environment encountered during

flight.

ote: N See Appendix 3: Aircraft, Equipment, and Operational Requirements & Limitations for information

related to this Task.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.IX.D.K1 Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) operations, limitations, and testing requirements.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)54Area of Operation IX. Emergency Operations

PA.IX.D.K2 Fire extinguisher operations and limitations.

PA.IX.D.K3 Emergency equipment and survival gear needed for:

PA.IX.D.K3a a. Climate extremes (hot/cold)

PA.IX.D.K3b b. Mountainous terrain

PA.IX.D.K3c c. Overwater operations

PA.IX.D.K4 When to deploy a ballistic parachute and associated passenger briefings, if equipped.

PA.IX.D.K5 When to activate an emergency auto-land system and brief passengers, if equipped.

Risk

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

PA.IX.D.R1 Survival gear (water, clothing, shelter) for 48 to 72 hours.

PA.IX.D.R2 Use of a ballistic parachute system.

PA.IX.D.R3 Use of an emergency auto-land system, if installed.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.IX.D.S1 Identify appropriate equipment and personal gear.

PA.IX.D.S2 Brief passengers on proper use of on-board emergency equipment and survival gear.

PA.IX.D.S3 Simulate ballistic parachute deployment procedures, if equipped.

Task E. Engine Failure During Takeoff Before VMC (Simulated) (AMEL, AMES)

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; FAA-P-8740-66; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

engine failure during takeoff before minimum controllable airspeed (VMC).

ote: N See Appendix 2: Safety of Flight and Appendix 3: Aircraft, Equipment, and Operational Requirements &

Limitations for information related to this Task.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.IX.E.K1 Factors affecting minimum control airspeed with an inoperative engine (VMC).

PA.IX.E.K2 VMC (red line) and best single-engine rate of climb airspeed (VYSE) (blue line).

PA.IX.E.K3 Accelerate/stop distance.

Risk

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

PA.IX.E.R1 Potential engine failure during takeoff.

PA.IX.E.R2 Configuring the airplane.

PA.IX.E.R3 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)55Area of Operation IX. Emergency Operations

PA.IX.E.S1 Close the throttles smoothly and promptly when a simulated engine failure occurs.

PA.IX.E.S2 Maintain directional control and apply brakes (AMEL), or flight controls (AMES), as necessary.

Task F. Engine Failure After Liftoff (Simulated) (AMEL, AMES)

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; FAA-P-8740-66; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

engine failure after liftoff.

ote: N See Appendix 2: Safety of Flight and Appendix 3: Aircraft, Equipment, and Operational Requirements &

Limitations for information related to this Task.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.IX.F.K1 Factors affecting minimum controllable speed (VMC).

PA.IX.F.K2 VMC (red line), VYSE (blue line), and safe single-engine speed (VSSE).

PA.IX.F.K3 Accelerate/stop and accelerate/go distances.

PA.IX.F.K4 How to identify, verify, feather, and secure an inoperative engine.

PA.IX.F.K5 Importance of drag reduction, including propeller feathering, gear and flap retraction, the

manufacturer’s recommended control input and its relation to zero sideslip.

PA.IX.F.K6 Simulated propeller feathering and the evaluator’s zero-thrust procedures and responsibilities.

Risk

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

PA.IX.F.R1 Potential engine failure after lift-off.

PA.IX.F.R2 Collision hazards.

PA.IX.F.R3 Configuring the airplane.

PA.IX.F.R4 Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

PA.IX.F.R5 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.IX.F.S1 Promptly recognize an engine failure, maintain control, and use appropriate emergency procedures.

PA.IX.F.S2 Establish VYSE; if obstructions are present, establish best single-engine angle of climb speed (VXSE) or

VMC +5 knots, whichever is greater, until obstructions are cleared. Then transition to VYSE.

PA.IX.F.S3 Reduce drag by retracting landing gear and flaps in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidance.

PA.IX.F.S4 Simulate feathering the propeller on the inoperative engine (evaluator should then establish zero thrust

on the inoperative engine).

PA.IX.F.S5 Use flight controls in the proper combination as recommended by the manufacturer, or as required to

maintain best performance, and trim as required.

PA.IX.F.S6 Monitor the operating engine and aircraft systems and make adjustments as necessary.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)56Area of Operation IX. Emergency Operations

PA.IX.F.S7 Recognize the airplane’s performance capabilities. If a climb is not possible at VYSE, maintain VYSE and

return to the departure airport for landing, or initiate an approach to the most suitable landing area

available.

PA.IX.F.S8 Simulate securing the inoperative engine.

PA.IX.F.S9 Maintain heading ±10° and airspeed ±5 knots.

PA.IX.F.S10 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

Task G. Approach and Landing with an Inoperative Engine (Simulated)(AMEL, AMES)

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; FAA-P-8740-66; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

approach and landing with an engine inoperative, including engine failure on final approach.

ote: N See Appendix 2: Safety of Flight and Appendix 3: Aircraft, Equipment, and Operational Requirements &

Limitations for information related to this Task.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.IX.G.K1 Factors affecting minimum controllable speed (VMC).

PA.IX.G.K2 VMC (red line) and best single-engine rate of climb airspeed (VYSE) (blue line).

PA.IX.G.K3 How to identify, verify, feather, and secure an inoperative engine.

PA.IX.G.K4 Importance of drag reduction, including propeller feathering, gear and flap retraction, the

manufacturer’s recommended control input and its relation to zero sideslip.

PA.IX.G.K5 Applicant responsibilities during simulated feathering.

Risk

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

PA.IX.G.R1 Potential engine failure inflight or during an approach.

PA.IX.G.R2 Collision hazards.

PA.IX.G.R3 Configuring the airplane.

PA.IX.G.R4 Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

PA.IX.G.R5 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.IX.G.R6 Possible single-engine go-around.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.IX.G.S1 Promptly recognize an engine failure and maintain positive aircraft control.

PA.IX.G.S2 Set the engine controls, reduce drag, identify and verify the inoperative engine, and simulate

feathering of the propeller on the inoperative engine (evaluator should then establish zero thrust on the

inoperative engine).

PA.IX.G.S3 Use flight controls in the proper combination as recommended by the manufacturer, or as required to

maintain best performance, and trim as required.

PA.IX.G.S4 Follow the manufacturer’s recommended emergency procedures and complete the appropriate

checklist.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)57Area of Operation IX. Emergency Operations

PA.IX.G.S5 Monitor the operating engine and aircraft systems and make adjustments as necessary.

PA.IX.G.S6 Maintain the manufacturer’s recommended approach airspeed +10/-5 knots, in the landing

configuration with a stabilized approach, until landing is assured.

PA.IX.G.S7 Make smooth, timely, and correct control application before, during, and after touchdown.

PA.IX.G.S8 Touch down on the first one-third of available runway/landing surface, with no drift, and the airplane’s

longitudinal axis aligned with and over the runway center or landing path.

PA.IX.G.S9 Maintain directional control and appropriate crosswind correction throughout the approach and

landing.

PA.IX.G.S10 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)58Area of Operation X. Multiengine Operations

Area of Operation X. Multiengine Operations

Task A. Maneuvering with One Engine Inoperative (AMEL, AMES)

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; FAA-P-8740-66; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

maneuvering with one engine inoperative.

ote: N See Appendix 2: Safety of Flight and Appendix 3: Aircraft, Equipment, and Operational Requirements &

Limitations for information related to this Task.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.X.A.K1 Factors affecting minimum controllable speed (VMC).

PA.X.A.K2 VMC (red line) and best single-engine rate of climb airspeed (VYSE) (blue line).

PA.X.A.K3 How to identify, verify, feather, and secure an inoperative engine.

PA.X.A.K4 Importance of drag reduction, including propeller feathering, gear and flap retraction, the

manufacturer's recommended control input and its relation to zero sideslip.

PA.X.A.K5 Feathering, securing, unfeathering, and restarting.

Risk

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

PA.X.A.R1 Potential engine failure during flight.

PA.X.A.R2 Collision hazards.

PA.X.A.R3 Configuring the airplane.

PA.X.A.R4 Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

PA.X.A.R5 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.X.A.S1 Recognize an engine failure, maintain control, use manufacturer’s memory item procedures, and use

appropriate emergency procedures.

PA.X.A.S2 Set the engine controls, identify and verify the inoperative engine, and feather the appropriate

propeller.

PA.X.A.S3 Use flight controls in the proper combination as recommended by the manufacturer, or as required to

maintain best performance, and trim as required.

PA.X.A.S4 Attempt to determine and resolve the reason for the engine failure.

PA.X.A.S5 Secure the inoperative engine and monitor the operating engine and make necessary adjustments.

PA.X.A.S6 Restart the inoperative engine using manufacturer’s restart procedures.

PA.X.A.S7 Maintain altitude ±100 feet or minimum sink rate if applicable, airspeed ±10 knots, and selected

headings ±10°.

PA.X.A.S8 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)59Area of Operation X. Multiengine Operations

Task B. VMC Demonstration (AMEL, AMES)

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; FAA-P-8740-66; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

VMC demonstration.

ote: N See Appendix 2: Safety of Flight and Appendix 3: Aircraft, Equipment, and Operational Requirements &

Limitations for information related to this Task.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.X.B.K1 Factors affecting VMC and how VMC differs from stall speed (VS).

PA.X.B.K2 VMC (red line), VYSE (blue line), and safe single-engine speed (VSSE).

PA.X.B.K3 Cause of loss of directional control at airspeeds below VMC.

PA.X.B.K4 Proper procedures for maneuver entry and safe recovery.

Risk

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

PA.X.B.R1 Configuring the airplane.

PA.X.B.R2 Maneuvering with one engine inoperative.

PA.X.B.R3 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.X.B.S1 Configure the airplane in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations, in the absence of the

manufacturer’s recommendations, then at safe single-engine speed (VSSE/VYSE), as appropriate, and:

PA.X.B.S1a a. Landing gear retracted

PA.X.B.S1b b. Flaps set for takeoff

PA.X.B.S1c c. Cowl flaps set for takeoff

PA.X.B.S1d d. Trim set for takeoff

PA.X.B.S1e e. Propellers set for high revolutions per minute (rpm)

PA.X.B.S1f f. Power on critical engine reduced to idle and propeller windmilling

PA.X.B.S1g g. Power on operating engine set to takeoff or maximum available power

PA.X.B.S2 Establish a single-engine climb attitude with the airspeed at approximately 10 knots above VSSE.

PA.X.B.S3 Establish a bank angle not to exceed 5° toward the operating engine, as required for best performance

and controllability.

PA.X.B.S4 Increase the pitch attitude slowly to reduce the airspeed at approximately 1 knot per second while

applying increased rudder pressure as needed to maintain directional control.

PA.X.B.S5 Recognize and recover at the first indication of loss of directional control, stall warning, or buffet.

PA.X.B.S6 Recover promptly by simultaneously reducing power sufficiently on the operating engine, decreasing

the angle of attack as necessary to regain airspeed and directional control, and without adding power

on the simulated failed engine.

PA.X.B.S7 Recover within 20° of entry heading.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)60Area of Operation X. Multiengine Operations

PA.X.B.S8 Advance power smoothly on the operating engine and accelerate to VSSE/VYSE, as appropriate, +10/-5

knots during recovery.

Task C. One Engine Inoperative (Simulated) (solely by Reference to Instruments) During Straight-and-

Level Flight and Turns (AMEL, AMES)

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-15, FAA-H-8083-25; FAA-P-8740-66; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

flight solely by reference to instruments with one engine inoperative.

ote: N See Appendix 2: Safety of Flight and Appendix 3: Aircraft, Equipment, and Operational Requirements &

Limitations for information related to this Task.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.X.C.K1 Procedures used if engine failure occurs during straight-and-level flight and turns while on instruments.

Risk

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

PA.X.C.R1 Identification of the inoperative engine.

PA.X.C.R2 Inability to climb or maintain altitude with an inoperative engine.

PA.X.C.R3 Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

PA.X.C.R4 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.X.C.R5 Fuel management during single-engine operation.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.X.C.S1 Promptly recognize an engine failure and maintain positive aircraft control.

PA.X.C.S2 Set the engine controls, reduce drag, identify and verify the inoperative engine, and simulate

feathering of the propeller on the inoperative engine (evaluator should then establish zero thrust on the

inoperative engine).

PA.X.C.S3 Establish the best engine-inoperative airspeed and trim the airplane.

PA.X.C.S4 Use flight controls in the proper combination as recommended by the manufacturer, or as required to

maintain best performance, and trim as required.

PA.X.C.S5 Verify the prescribed checklist procedures used for securing the inoperative engine.

PA.X.C.S6 Attempt to determine and resolve the reason for the engine failure.

PA.X.C.S7 Monitor engine functions and make necessary adjustments.

PA.X.C.S8 Maintain the specified altitude ±100 feet or minimum sink rate if applicable, airspeed ±10 knots, and

the specified heading ±10°.

PA.X.C.S9 Assess the aircraft’s performance capability and decide an appropriate action to ensure a safe landing.

PA.X.C.S10 Avoid loss of airplane control or attempted flight contrary to the engine-inoperative operating limitations

of the airplane.

PA.X.C.S11 Use single-pilot resource management (SRM) or crew resource management (CRM), as appropriate.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)61Area of Operation X. Multiengine Operations

Task D. Instrument Approach and Landing with an Inoperative Engine (Simulated) (AMEL, AMES)

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-15, FAA-H-8083-25; FAA-P-8740-66; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated

with executing a published instrument approach solely by reference to instruments with one engine

inoperative.

ote: N See Appendix 2: Safety of Flight and Appendix 3: Aircraft, Equipment, and Operational Requirements &

Limitations for information related to this Task.

ote: N For non-amphibious seaplanes, this task applies only when the applicant has immediate access to an

instrument approach to a waterway.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.X.D.K1 Instrument approach procedures with one engine inoperative.

Risk

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

PA.X.D.R1 Potential engine failure during approach and landing.

PA.X.D.R2 Collision hazards.

PA.X.D.R3 Configuring the airplane.

PA.X.D.R4 Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).

PA.X.D.R5 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.X.D.R6 Performing a go-around/rejected landing with an engine failure.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.X.D.S1 Promptly recognize an engine failure and maintain positive aircraft control.

PA.X.D.S2 Set the engine controls, reduce drag, identify and verify the inoperative engine, and simulate

feathering of the propeller on the inoperative engine (evaluator should then establish zero thrust on the

inoperative engine).

PA.X.D.S3 Use flight controls in the proper combination as recommended by the manufacturer, or as required to

maintain best performance, and trim as required.

PA.X.D.S4 Follow the manufacturer’s recommended emergency procedures and complete the appropriate

checklist.

PA.X.D.S5 Monitor the operating engine and aircraft systems and make adjustments as necessary.

PA.X.D.S6 Request and follow an actual or a simulated air traffic control (ATC) clearance for an instrument

approach.

PA.X.D.S7 Maintain altitude ±100 feet or minimum sink rate if applicable, airspeed ±10 knots, and selected

heading ±10°.

PA.X.D.S8 Establish a rate of descent that ensures arrival at the minimum descent altitude (MDA) or decision

altitude (DA)/decision height (DH) with the airplane in a position from which a descent to a landing on

the intended runway or landing path can be made, either straight in or circling as appropriate.

PA.X.D.S9 On final approach segment, maintain vertical (as applicable) and lateral guidance within ¾-scale

deflection.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)62Area of Operation X. Multiengine Operations

PA.X.D.S10 Avoid loss of airplane control or attempted flight contrary to the operating limitations of the airplane.

PA.X.D.S11 Comply with the published criteria for the aircraft approach category if circling.

PA.X.D.S12 Execute a landing.

PA.X.D.S13 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)63Area of Operation XI. Night Operations

Area of Operation XI. Night Operations

Task A. Night Operations

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

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge and risk management associated with night

operations.

ote: N For applicants that reside in Alaska, refer to 14 CFR part 61, section 61.110.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.XI.A.K1 Physiological aspects of vision related to night flying.

PA.XI.A.K2 Lighting systems identifying airports, runways, taxiways and obstructions, as well as pilot controlled

lighting.

PA.XI.A.K3 Airplane equipment and lighting requirements for night operations.

PA.XI.A.K4 Personal equipment essential for night flight.

PA.XI.A.K5 Night orientation, navigation, chart reading techniques and methods for maintaining night vision

effectiveness.

PA.XI.A.K6 Night taxi operations.

PA.XI.A.K7 Interpretation of traffic position and direction based solely on position lights.

PA.XI.A.K8 Visual illusions at night.

Risk

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

PA.XI.A.R1 Collision hazards.

PA.XI.A.R2 Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

PA.XI.A.R3 Effect of visual illusions and night adaptation during all phases of night flying.

PA.XI.A.R4 Runway incursion.

PA.XI.A.R5 Night currency versus proficiency.

PA.XI.A.R6 Weather considerations specific to night operations.

PA.XI.A.R7 Inoperative equipment.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

[Intentionally left blank].

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)64Area of Operation XII. Postflight Procedures

Area of Operation XII. Postflight Procedures

Task A. After Landing, Parking, and Securing (ASEL, AMEL)

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

after landing, parking, and securing procedures.

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.XII.A.K1 Airplane shutdown, securing, and postflight inspection.

PA.XII.A.K2 Documenting in-flight/postflight discrepancies.

Risk

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

PA.XII.A.R1 Activities and distractions.

PA.XII.A.R2 [Archived]

PA.XII.A.R3 Airport specific security procedures.

PA.XII.A.R4 Disembarking passengers safely on the ramp and monitoring passenger movement while on the ramp.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.XII.A.S1 [Archived]

PA.XII.A.S2 Park in an appropriate area, considering the safety of nearby persons and property.

PA.XII.A.S3 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

PA.XII.A.S4 Conduct a postflight inspection and document discrepancies and servicing requirements, if any.

PA.XII.A.S5 Secure the airplane.

Task B. Seaplane Post-Landing Procedures (ASES, AMES)

eferences: R FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-23, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

bjective: O To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with

anchoring, docking, mooring, and ramping/beaching.

ote: N The evaluator must select at least one after-landing procedure (anchoring, docking and mooring, or

ramping/beaching).

Knowledge: The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

PA.XII.B.K1 Mooring.

PA.XII.B.K2 Docking.

PA.XII.B.K3 Anchoring.

PA.XII.B.K4 Beaching/ramping.

PA.XII.B.K5 Postflight inspection, recording of in-flight/postflight discrepancies.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)65Area of Operation XII. Postflight Procedures

Risk

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

PA.XII.B.R1 Activities and distractions.

PA.XII.B.R2 [Archived]

PA.XII.B.R3 Seaplane base specific security procedures, if applicable.

PA.XII.B.R4 Disembarking passengers safely on the ramp and monitoring passenger movement while on the ramp.

Skills: The applicant exhibits the skill to:

PA.XII.B.S1 If anchoring, select a suitable area considering seaplane movement, water depth, tide, wind, and

weather changes. Use an adequate number of anchors and lines of sufficient strength and length to

ensure the seaplane’s security.

PA.XII.B.S2 If not anchoring, approach the dock/mooring buoy or beach/ramp in the proper direction and at a safe

speed, considering water depth, tide, current, and wind.

PA.XII.B.S3 Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

PA.XII.B.S4 Conduct a postflight inspection and document discrepancies and servicing requirements, if any.

PA.XII.B.S5 Secure the seaplane considering the effect of wind, waves, and changes in water level, or comply with

applicable after landing, parking, and securing procedures if operating an amphibious airplane on land.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)66Appendix 1: Practical Test Roles, Responsibilities, and Outcomes

Appendix 1: Practical Test Roles, Responsibilities, and Outcomes

Eligibility Requirements for a Private Pilot Certificate

The prerequisite requirements and general eligibility for a practical test and the specific requirements for the original issuance

of a Private Pilot Certificate in the airplane category can be found in 14 CFR part 61, sections 61.39(a) and 61.103.

In accordance with 14 CFR part 61, section 61.39, the applicant must pass the airman knowledge test before taking the

practical test, if applicable to the certificate or rating sought.

ote: N An applicant seeking to add an additional category or class to an existing certificate must comply with 14 CFR

section 61.63, as applicable.

Private Pilot Airplane Knowledge Test Table

For an initial Private Pilot Certificate, applicants must pass the knowledge test listed in the table below as a prerequisite for

the practical test.

Test

Code Test NameNumber of

Questions AgeAllotted

TimePassing

Score

PAR Private Pilot Airplane 60 15 2.5 70

Use of the ACS During a Practical Test

The practical test is conducted in accordance with the ACS and FAA regulations that are current as of the date of the test.

The Areas of Operation in this ACS align with the Areas of Operation found in 14 CFR part 61, section 61.107(b). Each

Area of Operation includes Tasks appropriate to that Area of Operation. Each Task contains an Objective stating what

the applicant must know, consider, and/or do. The ACS then lists the aeronautical knowledge, risk management, and skill

elements relevant to the specific Task, along with the conditions and standards for acceptable performance. The ACS uses

Notes to emphasize special considerations.

During the ground and flight portion of the practical test, the FAA expects evaluators to assess the applicant's mastery

of the topic in accordance with the level of learning most appropriate for the specified Task. The oral questioning will

continue throughout the entire practical test. For some topics, the evaluator will ask the applicant to describe or explain.

For other items, the evaluator will assess the applicant's understanding by providing a scenario that requires the applicant

to appropriately apply and/or correlate knowledge, experience, and information to the circumstances of the given scenario.

The flight portion of the practical test requires the applicant to demonstrate knowledge, risk management, flight proficiency,

and operational skill in accordance with the ACS.

The elements within each Task in this ACS are coded according to a scheme that includes four components. For example,

PA.I.C.K2:

PA = Applicable ACS

I = Area of Operation

C = Task

K2 = Task element (in this example, Knowledge 2)

There is no requirement for an evaluator to test every knowledge and risk management element in a Task; rather the evaluator

has discretion to sample as needed to ensure the applicant’s mastery of that Task. The required minimum elements to be

tested from each applicable Task include:

• any elements in which the applicant was shown to be deficient on the knowledge test, as applicable;

• at least one knowledge element;

• at least one risk management element; and

• all skill elements unless otherwise noted.

ote: N The Airman Knowledge Test Report (AKTR) lists ACS codes that correlate to a specific Task element for a given

Area of Operation for any incorrect responses on the knowledge test.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)67Appendix 1: Practical Test Roles, Responsibilities, and Outcomes

Knowledge and risk management elements are primarily evaluated during the knowledge testing phase of the airman

certification process. The evaluator administering the practical test has the discretion to combine Tasks/elements as

appropriate to testing scenarios.

Unless otherwise noted in the Task, the evaluator must test each item in the skills section by observing the applicant perform

each one. As safety of flight conditions permit, the evaluator should use questions during flight to test knowledge and risk

management elements not evident in the demonstrated skills. To the greatest extent practicable, evaluators should test the

applicant’s ability to apply and correlate information and use rote questions only when they are appropriate for the material

being tested.

If the Task includes a knowledge or risk element with sub-elements, the evaluator may choose the primary element and

select at least one sub-element to satisfy the requirement. Selection of the sub-element satisfies the requirement for one

element unless otherwise noted.

For example, an evaluator who chooses PA.I.H.K1 may select a sub-element such as PA.I.H.K1e to satisfy the requirement

to select one knowledge element.

The References for each Task indicate the source material for Task elements. For example, in the Task element “Acceptable

weather products and resources required for preflight planning, current and forecast weather for departure, en route, and

arrival phases of flight such as:” (PA.I.C.K2), the applicant should be prepared for questions on any weather product

presented in the references for that Task.

The FAA encourages applicants and instructors to use the ACS when preparing for the airman knowledge tests and practical

tests. Evaluators must conduct the practical test in accordance with the current ACS and FAA regulations pursuant to 14

CFR part 61, section 61.43. If an applicant is entitled to credit for Areas of Operation previously passed as indicated on a

Notice of Disapproval of Application or Letter of Discontinuance, evaluators shall use the ACS currently in effect on the date

of the test.

The ground portion of the practical test allows the evaluator to determine whether the applicant is sufficiently prepared to

advance to the flight portion of the practical test. The applicant must pass the ground portion of the practical test before

beginning the flight portion. The oral questioning will continue throughout the entire practical test.

Combined Private/Instrument Test

Applicants for a combined Private Pilot Certificate with Instrument Rating, in accordance with 14 CFR part 61, section

61.65(a) and (g), must pass all areas designated in the Private Pilot for Airplane ACS and the Instrument Rating – Airplane

ACS. Evaluators need not duplicate Tasks. For example, only one preflight demonstration would be required; however, the

Preflight Task from the Instrument Rating – Airplane ACS would be more extensive than the Preflight Task from the Private

Pilot for Airplane ACS to ensure readiness for Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) flight. Applicants for a combined test must

present the applicable test reports.

A combined certificate and rating evaluation should be treated as one practical test, requiring only one application and

resulting in only one temporary certificate, disapproval notice, or letter of discontinuance, as applicable. Failure of any Task

will result in a failure of the entire test and application. Therefore, even if the deficient maneuver was instrument related and

the performance of all visual flight rules (VFR) Tasks was determined to be satisfactory, the applicant will receive a notice

of disapproval.

Instructor Responsibilities

The instructor trains and qualifies the applicant to meet the established standards for knowledge, risk management, and skill

elements in all Tasks appropriate to the certificate and rating sought. The instructor should use this ACS and its references

when preparing the applicant to take the practical test and when retraining the applicant to proficiency in any subject(s)

missed on the knowledge test.

Evaluator Responsibilities

An evaluator includes the following:

• Aviation Safety Inspector (ASI);

• Pilot examiner (other than administrative pilot examiners);

• Training center evaluator (TCE);

• Chief instructor, assistant chief instructor, or check instructor of pilot school holding examining authority; or

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)68Appendix 1: Practical Test Roles, Responsibilities, and Outcomes

• Instrument Flight Instructor (CFII) conducting an instrument proficiency check (IPC).

The evaluator who conducts the practical test verifies the applicant has met the aeronautical experience requirements

specified for a certificate or rating before administering the test. During the practical test, the evaluator determines whether

the applicant meets the established standards of aeronautical knowledge, risk management, and skills for the Tasks in the

appropriate ACS.

The evaluator must develop a plan of action (POA) that includes all required Areas of Operation and Tasks and administer

each practical test in English. The POA must include scenario(s) that evaluate as many of the required Areas of Operation

and Tasks as possible. As a scenario unfolds during the test, the evaluator will introduce problems and simulate emergencies

that test the applicant’s ability. The evaluator has the discretion to modify the POA to accommodate unexpected situations

as they arise or suspend and later resume a scenario to assess certain Tasks.

Prior to and throughout the evaluation, the evaluator ensures the applicant meets the FAA Aviation English Language

Standard (AELS). An applicant must be able to communicate in English in a discernible and understandable manner with

air traffic control (ATC), pilots, and others involved in preparing an aircraft for flight and operating an aircraft in flight.

This communication may or may not involve radio communications. An applicant for an FAA certificate or rating issued in

accordance with 14 CFR parts 61, 63, 65, or 107 who cannot hear or speak due to a medical deficiency may be eligible for

an FAA certificate with specific operational limitations.

If the applicant’s ability to meet the FAA AELS comes into question before starting the practical test, the evaluator will not

begin the practical test. An evaluator other than an ASI will check the box, “Referred to FSO for Aviation English Language

Standard Determination,” located on the bottom of page 2 of the applicant’s FAA Form 8710-1, Airman Certificate and/

or Rating Application, or FAA Form 8710-11, Airman Certificate and/or Rating Application - Sport Pilot, as applicable. The

evaluator will refer the applicant to the appropriate Flight Standards Office (FSO).

If the applicant’s ability to meet the FAA AELS comes into question after the practical test begins, an evaluator who other

than an ASI will discontinue the practical test and check the box, “Referred to FSO for Aviation English Language Standard

Determination,” on the application. The evaluator will also issue FAA Form 8060-5, Notice of Disapproval of Application,

with the comment “Does Not Demonstrate FAA AELS” in addition to any unsatisfactory Task(s). The evaluator will refer the

applicant to the appropriate FSO. ASIs conducting the practical test may assess an applicant’s English language proficiency

in accordance with FAA Order 8900.1.

In either case, the evaluator must complete and submit the application file through normal application procedures and

evaluators other than an ASI notify the appropriate FSO of the referral.

If the ability of an FAA certificated airman comes into question prior to or during a required regulatory check (e.g., proficiency

check) the evaluator other than an ASI will not continue the check or provide an endorsement indicating completion. The

evaluator will refer the airman to the jurisdictional FAA field office for further determination of ability to meet the FAA AELS.

For additional information, reference AC 60-28, FAA English Language Standard for an FAA Certificate issued under 14

CFR parts 61, 63, 65, and 107, as amended.

The abbreviation(s) within parentheses immediately following a Task refers to the category and/or class airplane appropriate

to that Task. The absence of a class indicates the Task is for all classes. The meaning of each abbreviation is as follows:

• ASEL—Airplane – Single-Engine Land

• ASES—Airplane – Single-Engine Sea

• AMEL—Airplane – Multiengine Land

• AMES—Airplane – Multiengine Sea

ote: N Note: When administering a test, the Tasks appropriate to the class airplane (ASEL, ASES, AMEL, or AMES)

used for the test must be included in the plan of action.

Possible Outcomes of the Test

A practical test has three possible outcomes: (1) Temporary Airman Certificate (satisfactory), (2) Notice of Disapproval of

Application (unsatisfactory), or (3) Letter of Discontinuance.

If the evaluator determines that a Task is incomplete, or the outcome is uncertain, the evaluator must require the applicant

to repeat that Task, or portions of that Task. This provision does not mean that instruction, practice, or the repetition of an

unsatisfactory Task is permitted during the practical test.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)69Appendix 1: Practical Test Roles, Responsibilities, and Outcomes

Satisfactory Performance

Refer to 14 CFR part 61, section 61.43, for satisfactory performance requirements.

Satisfactory performance will result in the issuance of a temporary certificate.

Unsatisfactory Performance

If, in the judgment of the evaluator, the applicant does not meet the standards for any Task, the applicant fails the Task

and associated Area of Operation and the evaluator issues a Notice of Disapproval of Application. The evaluator lists the

Area(s) of Operation in which the applicant did not meet the standard, any Area(s) of Operation not tested, and the number

of practical test failures. The evaluator should also list the Tasks failed or Tasks not tested within any unsatisfactory or

partially completed Area(s) of Operation. 14 CFR part 61, section 61.43(c)-(f) provides additional unsatisfactory performance

requirements and parameters.

Typical areas of unsatisfactory performance and grounds for disqualification include:

• Any action or lack of action by the applicant that requires corrective intervention by the evaluator to maintain safe

flight.

• Failure to use proper and effective visual scanning techniques to clear the area before and while performing

maneuvers.

• Consistently exceeding tolerances stated in the skill elements of the Task.

• Failure to take prompt corrective action when tolerances are exceeded.

• Failure to exercise risk management.

The evaluator or the applicant may end the test if the applicant fails a Task. The evaluator may continue the test only with

the consent of the applicant. The applicant receives credit only for those Areas of Operation and the associated Tasks

performed satisfactorily.

Letter of Discontinuance

Refer to 14 CFR part 61, section 61.43(e)(2) for conditions to issue a letter of discontinuance.

If discontinuing a practical test for reasons other than unsatisfactory performance (e.g., equipment failure, weather, illness),

the evaluator must return all test paperwork to the applicant. The evaluator must prepare, sign, and issue a Letter of

Discontinuance that lists those Areas of Operation the applicant successfully completed and the time period remaining to

complete the test to receive credit for previously completed Areas of Operation. The evaluator should advise the applicant to

present the Letter of Discontinuance to the evaluator when the practical test resumes in order to receive credit for the items

successfully completed. The Letter of Discontinuance becomes part of the applicant's certification file.

Time Limit and Credit after a Discontinued Practical Test

Refer to 14 CFR part 61, sections 61.39(f) and 61.43(f) after issuance of a Letter of Discontinuance or Notice of Disapproval

of Application.

Additional Rating Task Table

For an applicant who holds at least a Private Pilot Certificate and seeks an additional airplane category and/or class rating at

the private pilot level, the evaluator must evaluate that applicant in the Areas of Operation and Tasks listed in the Additional

Rating Task Table. The evaluator may evaluate the applicant’s competence in the remaining Areas of Operation and Tasks.

If the applicant holds two or more category or class ratings at the private level, and the ratings table indicates different Task

requirements, the “least restrictive” entry applies. For example, if “All” and “None” are indicated for one Area of Operation,

the “None” entry applies. If the table indicates “B” and “B, C” the “B” entry applies.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)70Appendix 1: Practical Test Roles, Responsibilities, and Outcomes

Addition of an Airplane Single-Engine Land Rating to an Existing Private Pilot Certificate

The table below indicates the required Tasks for each Area of Operation tested in accordance with this ACS.

Legend

ASES Airplane – Single-Engine Sea

AMEL Airplane – Multiengine Land

AMES Airplane – Multiengine Sea

RH Rotorcraft – Helicopter

RG Rotorcraft – Gyroplane

PL Powered-Lift

Private Pilot Rating(s) Held

Area of

OperationASES AMEL AMES RH RG Glider Balloon Airship PL

I F,G F,G F,G F,G F,G D,F,G D,F,G F,G F,G

II A,B,D,F A,B,F A,B,D,FA,B,C,D,

FA,B,C,D,

FA,B,C,D,

FA,B,C,D,

FA,B,C,D,

FA,B,C,D,

F

III B None B B B B B B B

IVA,B,C,

D,E,FA,B,C,

D,E,F,MA,B,C,D,

E,F,MA,B,C,D,

E,F,M,NA,B,C,D,

E,F,M,NA,B,C,D,

E,F,M,NA,B,C,D,

E,F,M,NA,B,C,D,

E,F,M,NA,B,C,D,

E,F,M,N

V None None None All A All All All All

VI None None None None None A,B,C,D A,B,C,D None None

VII None None None All All All All All All

VIII None None None All All All All All All

IX A,B,C A,B,C A,B,C A,B,C,D A,B,C,D A,B,C,D A,B,C,D A,B,C,D A,B,C,D

X None None None None None None None None None

XI None None None None None A A A A

XII A None A A A A A A A

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)71Appendix 1: Practical Test Roles, Responsibilities, and Outcomes

Addition of an Airplane Single-Engine Sea Rating to an Existing Private Pilot Certificate

The table below indicates the required Tasks for each Area of Operation tested in accordance with this ACS.

Legend

ASEL Airplane – Single-Engine Land

AMEL Airplane – Multiengine Land

AMES Airplane – Multiengine Sea

RH Rotorcraft – Helicopter

RG Rotorcraft – Gyroplane

PL Powered-Lift

Private Pilot Rating(s) Held

Area of

OperationASEL AMEL AMES RH RG Glider Balloon Airship PL

I F,G,I F,G,I F,G F,G,I D,F,G,I D,F,G,I D,F,G,I D,F,G,I F,G,I

II A,B,E,F A,B,E,F A,B,F A,B,C,E,F A,B,C,E,F A,B,C,E,F A,B,C,E,F A,B,C,E,F A,B,C,E,F

III B B None B B B B B B

IVA,B,G,H,

I,J,K,LA,B,G,H,

I,J,K,L,MA,B,MA,B,G,H,I,

J,K,L,M,NA,B,G,H,I,

J,K,L,M,NA,B,G,H,I,

J,K,L,M,NA,B,G,H,I,

J,K,L,M,NA,B,G,H,I,

J,K,L,M,NA,B,G,H,I,

J,K,L,M,N

V None None None All A All All All A

VI None None None None None All All None None

VII None None None All All All All All All

VIII None None None All All All All All All

IX A,B A,B A,B A,B,C,D A,B,C,D A,B,C,D A,B,C,D A,B,C,D A,B,C,D

X None None None None None None None None None

XI None None None None None All All All None

XII B B None B B B B B B

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)72Appendix 1: Practical Test Roles, Responsibilities, and Outcomes

Addition of an Airplane Multiengine Land Rating to an Existing Private Pilot Certificate

The table below indicates the required Tasks for each Area of Operation tested in accordance with this ACS.

Legend

ASEL Airplane – Single-Engine Land

ASES Airplane – Single-Engine Sea

AMES Airplane – Multiengine Sea

RH Rotorcraft – Helicopter

RG Rotorcraft – Gyroplane

PL Powered-Lift

Private Pilot Rating(s) Held

Area of

OperationASEL ASES AMES RH RG Glider Balloon Airship PL

I F,G F,G F,G F,G F,G D,F,G D,F,G F,G F,G

II A,B,C,D,F A,B,C,D,F A,D A,B,C,D,F A,B,C,D,F A,B,C,D,F A,B,C,D,F A,B,C,D,F A,B,C,D,F

III None B B B B B B B B

IV A,B,E,F A,B,E,F A,B,E,F A,B,E,F,N A,B,E,F,N A,B,E,F,N A,B,E,F,N A,B,E,F,N A,B,E,F,N

V A A None All A All All All A

VI None None None None None All All None None

VII All All None All All All All All All

VIII None None None All All All All All All

IX E,F,G E,F,G None A,C,E,F,G A,C,E,F,G A,C,E,F,G A,C,E,F,G A,C,E,F,G A,C,E,F,G

X* All All None All All All All All All

XI None None None None None All All All None

XII None A A A A A A A A

*Tasks C and D requirements do not apply to applicants who do not hold an instrument rating or who have previously

demonstrated instrument proficiency in a multiengine airplane.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)73Appendix 1: Practical Test Roles, Responsibilities, and Outcomes

Addition of an Airplane Multiengine Sea Rating to an existing Private Pilot Certificate

The table below indicates the required Tasks for each Area of Operation tested in accordance with this ACS.

Legend

ASEL Airplane – Single-Engine Land

ASES Airplane – Single-Engine Sea

AMEL Airplane – Multiengine Land

RH Rotorcraft – Helicopter

RG Rotorcraft – Gyroplane

PL Powered-Lift

Private Pilot Rating(s) Held

Area of

OperationASEL ASES AMEL RH RG Glider Balloon Airship PL

I F,G,I F,G F,G,I F,G,I F,G,I D,F,G,I D,F,G,I F,G,I F,G,I

II A,B,E,F A,B,E,F A,B,E,F A,B,C,E,F A,B,C,E,F A,B,C,E,F A,B,C,E,F A,B,C,E,F A,B,C,E,F

III None None None B B B B B B

IVA,B,G,H,

I,J,K,LA,BA,B,G,H,

I,J,K,LA,B,G,H,

I,J,K,L,NA,B,G,H,

I,J,K,L,NA,B,G,H,

I,J,K,L,NA,B,G,H,

I,J,K,L,NA,B,G,H,

I,J,K,L,NA,B,G,H,

I,J,K,L,N

V A A None All A All All All A

VI None None None None None All All None None

VII All All None All All All All All All

VIII None None None All All All All All All

IX E,F,G E,F,G None A,C,E,F,G A,C,E,F,G A,C,E,F,G A,C,E,F,G A,C,E,F,G A,C,E,F,G

X* All All None All All All All All All

XI None None None None None All All All None

XII B None B B B B B B B

*Tasks C and D requirements do not apply to applicants who do not hold an instrument rating or who have previously

demonstrated instrument proficiency in a multiengine airplane.

ote: N An applicant who holds a private airplane multiengine land rating without a center thrust limitation need not supply

a seaplane with propeller feathering capability when testing to add a private airplane multiengine sea rating.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)74Appendix 1: Practical Test Roles, Responsibilities, and Outcomes

Removal of the “Airplane Multiengine VFR Only” Limitation

The removal of the “Airplane Multiengine VFR Only” limitation, at the private pilot certificate level, requires an applicant

to satisfactorily perform the following Area of Operation and Tasks from the Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS in a

multiengine airplane that has a manufacturer’s published minimum control speed (VMC).

Removal of the “Limited to Center Thrust” Limitation

Applicants who complete the practical test for the AMEL rating in an aircraft that does not have a manufacturer’s published

VMC receive a certificate with a “Limited to Center Thrust” limitation. When conducting a practical test for the purpose of

removing the “Limited to Center Thrust” limitation, the evaluator must test the applicant on the multiengine Tasks identified

in the table below in a multiengine airplane that has a manufacturer’s published VMC speed. This speed appears on the type

certificate data sheet (TCDS) or in the Airplane Flight Manual (AFM). Removal of the limitation under 14 CFR parts 121,

135, or 142 occurs in accordance with an approved curriculum or training program. An applicant who holds an airplane

instrument rating and has not demonstrated instrument proficiency in a multiengine airplane with a published VMC shall

complete the additional Tasks listed under Removal of the “Airplane Multiengine VFR Only” Limitation section.X. Multiengine Operations

Task C: Engine Failure During Flight (by Reference to Instruments) (AMEL, AMES)

Task D: Instrument Approach and Landing with an Inoperative Engine (Simulated) (by Reference to

Instruments) (AMEL, AMES)

IX. Emergency Operations

Task E: Engine Failure During Takeoff Before VMC (Simulated) (AMEL, AMES)

Task F: Engine Failure After Liftoff (Simulated) (AMEL, AMES)

Task G: Approach and Landing with an Inoperative Engine (Simulated) (AMEL, AMES)

X. Multiengine Operations

Task A: Maneuvering with One Engine Inoperative (AMEL, AMES)

Task B: VMC Demonstration (AMEL, AMES)

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)75Appendix 2: Safety of Flight

Appendix 2: Safety of Flight

General

Safety of flight must be the prime consideration at all times. The evaluator, applicant, and crew must be continually alert

for other traffic. If performing aspects of a given maneuver, such as emergency procedures, would jeopardize safety, the

evaluator will ask the applicant to simulate that portion of the maneuver. The evaluator will assess the applicant’s use of

visual scanning and collision avoidance procedures throughout the entire test.

Stall and Spin Awareness

During flight training and testing, the applicant and the instructor or evaluator must always recognize and avoid operations

that could lead to an inadvertent stall or spin and inadvertent loss of control.

Use of Checklists

Throughout the practical test, the applicant is evaluated on the use of an appropriate checklist.

Assessing proper checklist use depends upon the specific Task. In all cases, the evaluator should determine whether the

applicant demonstrates CRM, appropriately divides attention, and uses proper visual scanning. In some situations, reading

the actual checklist may be impractical or unsafe. In such cases, the evaluator should assess the applicant's performance

of published or recommended immediate action “memory” items along with their review of the appropriate checklist once

conditions permit.

In a single-pilot airplane, the applicant should demonstrate the crew resource management (CRM) principles described

as single-pilot resource management (SRM). Proper use depends on the specific Task being evaluated. If the use of the

checklist while accomplishing elements of an Objective would be either unsafe or impractical in a single-pilot operation, the

applicant should review the checklist after accomplishing the elements.

Positive Exchange of Flight Controls

A clear understanding of who has control of the aircraft must exist. Prior to flight, the pilots involved should conduct a briefing

that includes reviewing the procedures for exchanging flight controls.

The FAA recommends a positive three-step process for exchanging flight controls between pilots:

• When one pilot seeks to have the other pilot take control of the aircraft, they will say, “You have the flight

controls.”

• The second pilot acknowledges immediately by saying, “I have the flight controls.”

• The first pilot again says, “You have the flight controls,” and visually confirms the exchange.

Pilots should follow this procedure during any exchange of flight controls, including any occurrence during the practical test.

The FAA also recommends that both pilots use a visual check to verify that the exchange has occurred. Doubt as to who is

flying the aircraft should not occur.

Use of Distractions

Numerous studies indicate that many accidents have occurred when the pilot has been distracted during critical phases

of flight. The evaluator should incorporate realistic distractions during the flight portion of the practical test to evaluate the

pilot’s situational awareness and ability to utilize proper control technique while dividing attention both inside and outside

the flight deck.

Aeronautical Decision-Making, Risk Management, Crew Resource Management, and Single-Pilot Resource

Management

Throughout the practical test, the evaluator must assess the applicant’s ability to use sound aeronautical decision-making

procedures in order to identify hazards and mitigate risk. The evaluator must accomplish this requirement by reference

to the risk management elements of the given Task(s), and by developing scenarios that incorporate and combine Tasks

appropriate to assessing the applicant’s risk management in making safe aeronautical decisions. For example, the evaluator

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)76Appendix 2: Safety of Flight

may develop a scenario that incorporates weather decisions and performance planning.

In assessing the applicant’s performance, the evaluator should take note of the applicant’s use of CRM and, if appropriate,

SRM. CRM/SRM is the set of competencies that includes situational awareness, communication skills, teamwork, task

allocation, and decision-making within a comprehensive framework of standard operating procedures (SOP). SRM

specifically refers to the management of all resources onboard the aircraft, as well as outside resources available to the

single pilot.

If an applicant fails to use aeronautical decision-making (ADM), including SRM/CRM, as applicable in any Task, the evaluator

will note that Task as failed. The evaluator will also include the ADM Skill element from the Flight Deck Management Task

on the Notice of Disapproval of Application.

Multiengine Considerations

On multiengine practical tests, where the failure of the most critical engine after liftoff is required, the evaluator must consider

local atmospheric conditions, terrain, and type of aircraft used. The evaluator must not simulate failure of an engine until

attaining an altitude of at least 400 feet AGL and at least minimum single-engine speed (VSSE), best single-engine angle-of-

climb speed (VXSE), or best single-engine rate-of-climb (VYSE).

The applicant must supply an airplane that does not prohibit the demonstration of feathering the propeller in flight. However,

an applicant holding an unrestricted AMEL rating may take a practical test for the addition of an AMES rating in an AMES

without propeller feathering capability. Practical tests conducted in a flight simulation training device (FSTD) can only be

accomplished as part of an approved curriculum or training program pursuant to 14 CFR part 61, section 61.64. Any

limitations or powerplant failure will be noted in that program.

For safety reasons, when the practical test is conducted in an airplane, the applicant must perform Tasks that require

feathering or shutdown only under conditions and at a position and altitude where it is possible to make a safe landing on

an established airport if there is difficulty in unfeathering the propeller or restarting the engine. The evaluator must select

an entry altitude that will allow the single-engine demonstration Tasks to be completed no lower than 3,000 feet AGL or

the manufacturer’s recommended altitude (whichever is higher). If it is not possible to unfeather the propeller or restart the

engine while airborne, the applicant and the evaluator should treat the situation as an emergency. At altitudes lower than

3,000 feet AGL, engine failure should be simulated by reducing throttle to idle and then establishing zero thrust.

Engine failure (simulated) during takeoff should be accomplished prior to reaching 50 percent of the calculated VMC.

Single-Engine Considerations

For safety reasons, the evaluator will not request a simulated powerplant failure in a single-engine airplane unless it is

possible to safely complete a landing.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)77Appendix 3: Aircraft, Equipment, and Operational Requirements & Limitations

Appendix 3: Aircraft, Equipment, and Operational Requirements & Limitations

Aircraft Requirements & Limitations

If the multiengine airplane used for the practical test does not publish a VMC, then the “Limited to Center Thrust” limitation

will be added to the certificate issued from this check, unless the applicant has previously demonstrated competence in a

multiengine airplane with a published VMC.

If the aircraft has inoperative equipment and can be operated in accordance with 14 CFR part 91, section 91.213, it must

be determined if any inoperative instruments or equipment are required to complete the practical test. The inoperative

equipment must not interfere with practical test requirements.

Equipment Requirements & Limitations

The aircraft must meet the requirements as outlined in 14 CFR part 61, section 61.45.

To assist in management of the aircraft during the practical test, the applicant is expected to demonstrate automation

management skills by utilizing installed, available, or airborne equipment such as autopilot, avionics and systems displays,

and/or a flight management system (FMS). The evaluator is expected to test the applicant’s knowledge of the systems that

are available or installed and operative during both the ground and flight portions of the practical test. If the applicant has

trained using a portable electronic flight bag (EFB) to display charts and data and wishes to use the EFB during the practical

test, the applicant is expected to demonstrate appropriate knowledge, risk management, and skill appropriate to its use.

If the practical test involves maneuvering the aircraft solely by reference to instruments, the applicant is required by 14 CFR

part 61, section 61.45(d)(2) to provide an appropriate view limiting device acceptable to the Administrator. The applicant

and the evaluator should establish a procedure as to when and how this device should be donned and removed and brief

this procedure before the flight. This device must prevent the applicant from having visual reference outside the aircraft,

but it must not restrict the evaluator’s ability to see and avoid other traffic. The use of the device does not apply to specific

elements within a Task when there is a requirement for visual references.

Use of Flight Simulation Training Devices (FSTD)

Applicants for a pilot certificate or rating can accomplish all or part of a practical test or proficiency check in an FSTD qualified

under 14 CFR part 60, which includes full flight simulators (FFS) or flight training devices (FTD), only when conducted within

an FAA-approved training program. Each operational rule part identifies additional requirements for the approval and use of

FSTDs in an FAA-approved training program.

Credit for Pilot Time in an FSTD

14 CFR part 61 and part 141 specify the minimum experience requirements for each certificate or rating sought. 14 CFR part

61 and the appendices to part 141 specify the maximum amount of FFS or FTD flight training time an applicant can apply

toward those experience requirements.

Use of Aviation Training Devices (ATD)

Applicants for a pilot certificate or rating cannot use an ATD to accomplish a practical test, a 14 CFR part 61, section 61.58

proficiency check, or the flight portion of a 14 CFR part 61, section 61.57 flight review. An ATD is defined in 14 CFR part 61,

section 61.1.

The FAA’s General Aviation and Commercial Division evaluates and approves ATDs as permitted under 14 CFR part 61,

section 61.4(c) and FAA Order 8900.1. Each ATD is then issued an FAA letter of authorization (LOA) that is valid for 60

calendar months. The LOA for each ATD lists the pilot time credit allowances and associated limitations.

The Pilot Training and Certification Group public website provides a list of the FAA-approved ATDs and the associated

manufacturer.

Credit for Pilot Time in an ATD

14 CFR part 61 and part 141 specify the minimum experience requirements for each certificate or rating sought. 14 CFR

part 61 and the appendices to part 141 specify the maximum amount of ATD flight training time an applicant can apply

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)78Appendix 3: Aircraft, Equipment, and Operational Requirements & Limitations

toward those experience requirements. The LOA for each FAA-approved ATD lists the pilot time credit allowances and the

associated limitations.

Evaluators must request an applicant to provide a copy of the manufacturer's LOA when using ATD flight training time credit

to meet the minimum experience requirements for an airman pilot certificate, rating, or privilege.

Operational Requirements, Limitations, & Task Information

VII. Slow Flight and Stalls

Task A. Maneuvering During Slow Flight

Evaluation criteria for this Task should recognize that environmental factors (e.g., turbulence) may result in a momentary

activation of stall warning indicators such as the stall horn. If the applicant recognizes the stall warning indication and

promptly makes an appropriate correction, a momentary activation does not constitute unsatisfactory performance on this

Task. As with other Tasks, unsatisfactory performance would arise from an applicant’s continual deviation from the standard,

lack of correction, and/or lack of recognition.

Task B. Power-Off Stalls

Evaluation criteria for a recovery from an approach to stall should not mandate a predetermined value for altitude loss and

should not mandate maintaining altitude during recovery. Proper evaluation criteria should consider the multitude of external

and internal variables that affect the recovery altitude.

Task C. Power-On Stalls

In some high-performance airplanes, the power setting may have to be reduced below the ACS guidelines power setting to

prevent pitch attitudes greater than 30° nose up. Evaluation criteria for a recovery from an approach to stall does not mandate

a predetermined value for altitude loss and does not mandate maintaining altitude during recovery. Proper evaluation criteria

considers the multitude of external and internal variables that affect the recovery altitude.

IX. Emergency Operations

Task D. Emergency Equipment and Survival Gear

For airplanes that include a ballistic parachute, applicants must follow the manufacturer’s procedures for arming and

disarming the system before and after flight. Testing of an applicant’s knowledge regarding how and when to use the system

and how to manage associated risks may include simulation and briefing of procedures but not actual deployment of the

system.

Task E. Engine Failure During Takeoff Before VMC (Simulated) [Airplane, Multiengine Land (AMEL); Airplane Multiengine

Sea (AMES)]

Engine failure (simulated) during takeoff should be accomplished prior to reaching 50 percent of the calculated VMC.

Task F. Engine Failure After Liftoff (Simulated) (AMEL, AMES)

The evaluator must not simulate failure of an engine until attaining an altitude of at least 400 feet AGL and at least minimum

single-engine speed (VSSE), best single-engine angle-of-climb speed (VXSE), or best single-engine rate-of-climb (VYSE).

X. Multiengine Operations

Task B. VMC Demonstration (AMEL, AMES)

Airplanes with normally aspirated engines will lose power as altitude increases because of the reduced density of the

air entering the induction system of the engine. This loss of power will result in a VMC lower than the stall speed at higher

altitudes. Therefore, recovery should be made at the first indication of loss of directional control, stall warning, or buffet. Do

not perform this maneuver by increasing the pitch attitude to a high angle with both engines operating and then reducing

power on the critical engine. This technique is hazardous and may result in loss of airplane control.

Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)79Appendix 3: Aircraft, Equipment, and Operational Requirements & Limitations

Task C. One Engine Inoperative (Simulated) (solely by Reference to Instruments) During Straight-and-Level Flight and

Turns (AMEL, AMES)

This Task is not required if an instrument-rated applicant has previously demonstrated instrument proficiency in a multiengine

airplane, or if the applicant does not hold an Instrument Airplane Rating. If an applicant holds both a single- and multiengine

rating on a pilot certificate, but has not demonstrated instrument proficiency in a multiengine aircraft, that airman’s certificate

must bear a limitation indicating that multiengine flight is permitted in visual flight rules (VFR) conditions only.

Task D. Instrument Approach and Landing with an Inoperative Engine (Simulated) (solely by Reference to Instruments)

(AMEL, AMES)

This Task is not required if an instrument-rated applicant has previously demonstrated instrument proficiency in a multiengine

airplane, or if the applicant does not hold an Instrument Airplane Rating. If an applicant holds both a single- and multiengine

rating on a pilot certificate, but has not demonstrated instrument proficiency in a multiengine aircraft, that airman’s certificate

must bear a limitation indicating that multiengine flight is permitted in visual flight rules (VFR) conditions only.