Power off Approach

Chapter 16.2

Characteristics of Power off Approaches

The characteristics of approaches and landings without power on a designated landing surface at an aerodrome are as follows:

• The rate of descent is about twice as much as that for an engine-powered approach.

• During the whole approach we follow a slightly higher trajectory. The «altitude reserve» will only be lost in the FINAL approach by extending the flaps.The airplane must always be trimmed!

• During a power off approach, speed corrections are made by means of the pitch control.

Standard Procedures

A possible procedure for power off approaches is to maintain the standard circuit flight path, but the BASE should be closer to the landing surface.

Standard Procedures

If the ROD is higher, the approach should be divided into smaller sections. Note: A downwind flight may be too long (NO FLYING ZONE) and the landing surface may be too far.

Standard Procedures

Continuous visual contact with the landing suface is of the highest priority.

Standard Procedures

The height of the KEY POSITION for a diagonal approach should be approximately 1000 ft AGL, the approach becomes shorter than a normal circuit.

Standard Procedures

Corrections are possible by shortening or lengthening the BASE.

Local Procedures

While taking into account local procedures, approaches planned must be managed in such a way that in each phase of the approach:

• the current position can be estimated in relation to the landing surface.
  

• height and flight path corrections can be made.