AC 61-118A

Historical

Advisory circular · Announcement of Availability: FAA-S-8081-14, Private Pilot Practical Test Standards for Airplane - with Change 1

Approved
May 1, 1995
Last reviewed
October 16, 2024
This change
Canceled by Memo signed by Joseph K. Tintera; dated 04/28/2005.
Family
AC 61-118 · 1 version
Revision
A
14 CFR parts
1

Guidance, not mandatory unless a rule or AD requires it. DRS record last changed November 21, 2025.

Show pages 49–60

FAA-S-8081-142-xi XII. NIGHT OPERATIONS  A. NIGHT PREPARATION  B. NIGHT FLIGHT XIII. POSTFLIGHT PROCEDURES  A. AFTER LANDING  B. PARKING AND SECURING

FAA-S-8081-142-1 I. AREA OF OPERATION:

PREFLIGHT PREPARATION A. TASK: CERTIFICATES AND DOCUMENTS REFERENCES: FAR Parts 43, 61, 91; AC 61- 21, AC 61-23; Pilot's Operating Handbook, FAA-Approved Airplane Flight Manual.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to certificates and documents by explaining the appropriate—

a. pilot certificate, privileges and limitations.

b. medical certificate, class and duration.

c. pilot logbook or flight record, required entries.

2. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to certificates and documents by locating and explaining the—

a. airworthiness and registration certificates.

b. operating limitations, placards, instrument markings, handbooks, and/or manuals.

c. weight and balance data, including the equipment list.

d. airworthiness directives and compliance records, maintenance requirements, tests, and appropriate records.

B. TASK: WEATHER INFORMATION REFERENCES: AC 00-6, AC 00-45, AC 61-23, AC 61-84; AIM.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to weather information by analyzing weather reports and forecasts from various sources with emphasis on—

a. PIREP’s.

b. SIGMETs and AIRMET’s.

c. wind shear reports.

2. Makes a competent “go/no-go” decision based on available weather information.

FAA-S-8081-14 2-2 C. TASK: CROSS-COUNTRY FLIGHT PLANNING REFERENCES: AC 61-21, AC 61-23, AC 61-84; Navigation Charts; Airport/Facility Directory; AIM.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to cross-country flight planning by presenting and explaining a preplanned VFR cross-country flight near the maximum range of the airplane, as previously assigned by the examiner. The final flight plan shall include real-time weather to the first fuel stop, with maximum allowable passenger and baggage loads.

2. Uses appropriate, current aeronautical charts.

3. Plots a course for the intended route of flight.

4. Identifies airspace, obstructions, and terrain features.

5. Selects easily identifiable en route checkpoints.

6. Selects the most favorable altitudes, considering weather conditions and equipment capabilities.

7. Computes headings, flight time, and fuel requirements.

8. Selects appropriate navigat ion systems/facilities and communication frequencies.

9. Confirms availability of alternate airports.

10. Extracts and records pertinent information from NOTAM’s, the Airport/Facility Directory, and other flight publications.

11. Completes a navigation log and simulates filing a VFR flight plan.

D. TASK: NATIONAL AIRSPACE SYSTEM REFERENCES: FAR Parts 71, 91; Navigation Charts; AIM.

Objective. To determine that the applicant exhibits knowledge of the elements related to the National Airspace System by explaining:

1. Basic VFR Weather Minimums – for all classes of airspace.

2. Airspace classes – their boundaries, pilot certification and airplane equipment requirements for the following—

a. Class A.

b. Class B.

c. Class C.

d. Class D.

e. Class E.

f. Class G.

3. Special use airspace and other airspace areas.

FAA-S-8081-142-3 E. TASK: MINIMUM EQUIPMENT LIST REFERENCE: FAR Part 91.

Objective. To determine that the applicant exhibits knowledge of the elements related to the use of an approved Part 91 minimum equipment list by explaining:

1. Required instruments and equipment for day VFR and night VFR flight.

2. Procedures for operating the airplane with inoperative instruments and equipment.

3. Requirements and procedures for obtaining a special flight permit.

F. TASK: AEROMEDICAL FACTORS REFERENCES: AC 61-21, AC 67-2; AIM.

Objective. To determine that the applicant exhibits knowledge of the elements related to aeromedical factors by explaining:

1. The symptoms, causes, effects, and corrective actions of at least three of the following—

a. hypoxia.

b. hyperventilation.

c. middle ear and sinus problems.

d. spatial disorientation.

e. motion sickness.

f. carbon monoxide poisoning.

g. stress and fatigue.

2. The effects of alcohol and over-the-counter drugs.

3. The effects of nitrogen excesses during scuba dives upon a pilot or passenger in flight.

FAA-S-8081-14 2-4 II. AREA OF OPERATION:

PREFLIGHT PROCEDURES A. TASK: PREFLIGHT INSPECTION REFERENCES: AC 61-21; Pilot's Operating Handbook, FAA- Approved Airplane Flight Manual.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to preflight inspection. This shall include which items must be inspected, the reasons for checking each item, and how to detect possible defects.

2. Inspects the airplane with reference to the checklist.

3. Verifies the airplane is in condition for safe flight.

B. TASK: COCKPIT MANAGEMENT REFERENCES: AC 61-21; Pilot's Operating Handbook, FAA- Approved Airplane Flight Manual.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to cockpit management procedures.

2. Organizes material and equipment in a logical, efficient flow pattern.

3. Briefs passengers on the use of safety belts, shoulder harnesses, and emergency procedures.

4. Utilizes all appropriate checklists.

C. TASK: ENGINE STARTING REFERENCES: AC 61-21, AC 61-23, AC 91-13, AC 91-55; Pilot's Operating Handbook, FAA-Approved Airplane Flight Manual.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to engine starting. This shall include the use of an external power source and starting under various atmospheric conditions.

2. Positions the airplane properly considering open hangars, other aircraft, the safety of nearby persons and property on the ramp, and surfaces conditions.

3. Accomplishes the correct starting procedure.

4. Completes the appropriate checklist.

FAA-S-8081-142-5 D. TASK: TAXIING REFERENCES: AC 61-21; Pilot's Operating Handbook, FAA- Approved Airplane Flight Manual.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to safe taxi procedures.

2. Positions the flight controls properly for the existing wind conditions.

3. Performs a brake check immediately after the airplane begins moving.

4. Controls direction and speed without excessive use of brakes.

5. Complies with airport markings, signals, and ATC clearances.

6. Avoids other aircraft and hazards.

7. Completes the appropriate checklist.

E. TASK: BEFORE TAKEOFF CHECK REFERENCES: AC 61-21; Pilot's Operating Handbook, FAA- Approved Airplane Flight Manual.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to the before takeoff check. This shall include the reasons for checking each item and how to detect malfunctions.

2. Positions the airplane properly considering other aircraft, wind and surface conditions.

3. Divides attention inside and outside the cockpit.

4. Ensures that engine temperatures and pressures are suitable for run-up and takeoff.

5. Accomplishes the before takeoff check and confirms that the airplane is in safe operating condition.

6. Reviews takeoff performance airspeeds, takeoff distances, emergency procedures, and the departure procedure.

7. Assures no conflict with traffic prior to taxiing into takeoff position.

8. Completes the appropriate checklist.

FAA-S-8081-14 2-6 III. AREA OF OPERATION:

AIRPORT OPERATIONS A. TASK: RADIO COMMUNICATIONS AND ATC LIGHT

SIGNALS REFERENCES: AC 61-21, AC 61-23; AIM.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to radio communications and ATC light signals. This shall include radio failure procedures.

2. Selects appropriate frequencies.

3. Transmits using recommended phraseology.

4. Acknowledges radio communications and complies with instructions.

5. Uses prescribed procedures following radio communications failure.

6. Interprets and complies with ATC light signals.

B. TASK: TRAFFIC PATTERNS REFERENCES: AC 61-21, AC 61-23; AIM.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to traffic patterns.

This shall include procedures at controlled and uncontrolled airports, runway incursion and collision avoidance, wake turbulence avoidance, and wind shear.

2. Complies with traffic pattern procedures.

3. Maintains proper spacing from other traffic.

4. Establishes an appropriate distance from the runway.

5. Corrects for wind drift to maintain the proper ground track.

6. Maintains orientation with the runway in use.

7. Maintains traffic pattern altitude, ±100 feet (30 meters), and the appropriate airspeed, ± 10 knots.

8. Completes the appropriate checklist.

FAA-S-8081-142-7 C. TASK: AIRPORT AND RUNWAY MARKINGS AND

LIGHTING REFERENCES: AC 61-21, AC 61-23; AIM.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to airport and runway markings and lighting.

2. Identifies and interprets airport, runway and taxiway markings and lighting.

FAA-S-8081-14 2-8 IV.AREA OF OPERATION:

TAKEOFFS, LANDINGS, AND GO-AROUNDS A. TASK: NORMAL AND CROSSWIND TAKEOFF AND CLIMB NOTE: If a crosswind condition does not exist, the applicant's knowledge of crosswind elements shall be evaluated through oral testing.

REFERENCES: AC 61-21; Pilot's Operating Handbook, FAA- Approved Airplane Flight Manual.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to a normal and crosswind takeoff and climb.

2. Positions the flight controls for the existing wind conditions;

sets the flaps as recommended.

3. Clears the area, taxies into the takeoff position and aligns the airplane on the runway centerline.

4. Advances the throttle smoothly to takeoff power.

5. Rotates at the recommended airspeed, lifts off, accelerates to and establishes the pitch attitude for V Y and maintains V Y, +10/-5 knots, during the climb.

6. Retracts the landing gear and flaps after a positive rate of climb is established.

7. Maintains takeoff power and best rate-of-climb airspeed to a safe maneuvering altitude, then sets climb power and transitions to the recommended climb airspeed.

8. Maintains directional control and proper wind-drift correction throughout the takeoff and climb.

9. Complies with noise abatement procedures.

10. Completes the appropriate checklist.

FAA-S-8081-142-9 B. TASK: NORMAL AND CROSSWIND APPROACH AND

LANDING NOTE: If a crosswind condition does not exist, the applicant's knowledge of crosswind elements shall be evaluated through oral testing.

REFERENCES: AC 61-21; Pilot's Operating Handbook, FAA- Approved Airplane Flight Manual.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to a normal and crosswind approach and landing.

2. Considers the wind conditions, landing surface and obstructions, and selects the most suitable touchdown point.

3. Establishes the recommended approach and landing configuration and airspeed, and adjusts pitch attitude and power as required.

4. Maintains a stabilized approach and the recommended approach airspeed, or in its absence not more than 1.3 V SO, +10/-5 knots, with gust factor applied.

5. Makes smooth, timely, and correct control application during the roundout and touchdown.

6. Touches down smoothly at the approximate stalling speed, at or within 400 feet (120 meters) beyond a specified point, with no drift, and with the airplane's longitudinal axis aligned with and over the runway centerline.

7. Maintains crosswind correction and directional control throughout the approach and landing.

8. Completes the appropriate checklist.

C. TASK: SHORT-FIELD TAKEOFF AND CLIMB REFERENCES: AC 61-21; Pilot's Operating Handbook, FAA- Approved Airplane Flight Manual.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to a short-field takeoff and climb.

2. Positions the flight controls for the existing wind conditions;

sets the flaps as recommended.

3. Clears the area; taxies into the takeoff position so as to allow maximum utilization of the available takeoff area and aligns the airplane on the runway centerline.

4. Advances the throttle smoothly to takeoff power.

FAA-S-8081-14 2-10

5. Rotates at the recommended airspeed, lifts off and accelerates to the recommended obstacle clearance airspeed or VX.

6. Establishes the pitch attitude for the recommended obstacle clearance airspeed, or V X, and maintains that airspeed, +10/-5 knots, until the obstacle is cleared, or until the airplane is 50 feet (20 meters) above the surface.

7. After clearing the obstacle, accelerates to VY, establishes the pitch attitude for V Y, and maintains V Y, +10/-5 knots, during the climb.

8. Retracts the landing gear and flaps after a positive rate of climb is established.

9. Maintains takeoff power and best rate-of-climb airspeed to a safe maneuvering altitude, then sets climb power and transitions to the recommended climb airspeed.

10. Maintains directional control and proper wind-drift correction throughout the takeoff and climb.

11. Complies with noise abatement procedures.

12. Completes the appropriate checklist.

D. TASK: SHORT-FIELD APPROACH AND LANDING REFERENCES: AC 61-21; Pilot's Operating Handbook, FAA- Approved Airplane Flight Manual.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to a short-field approach and landing.

2. Considers the wind conditions, landing surface, and obstructions, and selects the most suitable touchdown point.

3. Establishes the recommended approach and landing configuration and airspeed, and adjusts pitch attitude and power as required.

4. Maintains a stabilized approach and the recommended approach airspeed, or in its absence not more than 1.3 V SO, +10/-5 knots, with gust factor applied.

5. Makes smooth, timely, and correct control application during the roundout and touchdown.

6. Touches down smoothly at the approximate stalling speed, at or within 200 feet (60 meters) beyond a specified point, with no side drift, and with the airplane's longitudinal axis aligned with and over the runway centerline.

7. Applies brakes, as necessary, to stop in the shortest distance consistent with safety.

FAA-S-8081-142-11

8. Maintains crosswind correction and directional control throughout the approach and landing.

9. Completes the appropriate checklist.

E. TASK: GO-AROUND REFERENCES: AC 61-21; Pilot's Operating Handbook, FAA- Approved Airplane Flight Manual.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to a go-around.

2. Makes a timely decision to discontinue the approach to landing.

3. Applies takeoff power immedia tely and transitions to the climb pitch attitude for VY, +10/-5 knots.

4. Retracts the flaps to the approach setting.

5. Retracts the landing gear after a positive rate of climb is established.

6. Maintains takeoff power and best rate-of-climb airspeed to a safe maneuvering altitude, then sets power and transitions to the airspeed appropriate for the traffic pattern.

7. Maintains directional control and proper wind-drift correction throughout the climb.

8. Complies with noise abatement procedures, as appropriate.

9. Flies the appropriate traffic pattern.

10. Completes the appropriate checklist.