COMMERCIAL PILOT - AIRPLANE
Practical Test Standards
I. AREA OF OPERATION: PREFLIGHT PREPARATION
NOTE: The examiner shall develop a scenario based on real time weather to evaluate TASKs C and D.
A. TASK: CERTIFICATES AND DOCUMENTS (AMEL and AMES)
REFERENCES: 14 CFR parts 43, 61, 91; FAA-H-8083-3, AC 61-23/FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant exhibits knowledge of the elements related to certificates and documents by:
1. Explaining -
a. commercial pilot certificate privileges limitations and recent flight experience requirements.
b. medical certificate class and duration.
c. pilot logbook or flight records.
2. Locating and explaining -
a. airworthiness and registration certificates.
b. operating limitations, placards, instrument markings, and POH/AFM.
c. weight and balance data and equipment list.
B. TASK: AIRWORTHINESS REQUIREMENTS (AMEL and AMES)
REFERENCES: 14 CFR part 91; AC 61-23/FAA-H-8083-25
Objective. To determine that the applicant exhibits knowledge of the elements related to airworthiness requirements by:
1. Explaining -
a. required instruments and equipment for day/night VFR.
b. procedures and limitations for determining airworthiness of the airplane with inoperative instruments and equipment with and without an MEL.
c. requirements and procedures for obtaining a special flight permit.
2. Locating and explaining -
a. airworthiness directives.
b. compliance records.
c. maintenance/inspection requirements.
d. appropriate record keeping.
C. TASK: WEATHER INFORMATION (AMEL and AMES)
REFERENCES: 14 CFR part 91; AC 00-6, AC 00-45, AC 61-23/FAA-H-8083-25, AC 61-84; AIM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to weather information by analyzing weather reports, charts, and forecasts from various sources with emphasis on -
a. METAR, TAF, and FA.
b. surface analysis chart.
c. radar summary chart.
d. winds and temperature aloft chart.
e. significant weather prognostic charts.
f. convective outlook chart.
g. AWOS, ASOS, and ATIS reports.
2. Makes a competent “go/no-go” decision based on available weather information.
D. TASK: CROSS-COUNTRY FLIGHT PLANNING (AMEL and AMES)
REFERENCES: 14 CFR part 91; AC 61-23/FAA-H-8083-25, AC 61-84; Navigation Charts; A/FD; AIM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to cross-country flight planning by presenting and explaining a pre-planned VFR crosscountry flight, as previously assigned by the examiner. On the day of the practical test, the final flight plan shall be to the first fuel stop, based on maximum allowable passengers, baggage and/or cargo loads using real time weather.
2. Uses appropriate and current aeronautical charts.
3. Properly identifies airspace, obstructions, and terrain features.
4. Selects easily identifiable en route checkpoints.
5. Selects most favorable altitudes considering weather conditions and equipment capabilities.
6. Computes headings, flight time, and fuel requirements.
7. Selects appropriate navigation system/facilities and communication frequencies.
8. Applies pertinent information from NOTAMs, A/FD, and other flight publications.
9. Completes a navigation log and simulates filing a VFR flight plan.
E. TASK: NATIONAL AIRSPACE SYSTEM (AMEL and AMES)
REFERENCES: 14 CFR 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 operating rules, 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 and other airspace areas.
F. TASK: PERFORMANCE AND LIMITATIONS (AMEL and AMES)
REFERENCES: AC 61-23/FAA-H-8083-25, FAA-H-8083-1, AC 61-84; POH/AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to performance and limitations by explaining the use of charts, tables, and data to determine performance and the adverse effects of exceeding limitations.
2. Computes weight and balance. Determines if the computed weight and center of gravity is within the airplane’s operating limitations and if the weight and center of gravity will remain within limits during all phases of flight.
3. Demonstrates use of the appropriate performance charts, tables, and data.
4. Describes the effects of atmospheric conditions on the airplane's performance.
G. TASK: OPERATION OF SYSTEMS (AMEL and AMES)
REFERENCES: AC 61-23/FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant exhibits knowledge of the elements related to the operation of systems on the airplane provided for the practical test, by explaining at least five (5) of the following systems:
1. Primary flight controls and trim.
2. Flaps, leading edge devices, and spoilers.
3. Water rudders (ASES).
4. Powerplant and propeller.
5. Landing gear.
6. Fuel, oil, and hydraulic.
7. Electrical.
8. Avionics.
9. Pitot-static, vacuum/pressure and associated flight instruments.
10. Environmental.
11. Deicing and anti-icing.
H. TASK: PRINCIPLES OF FLIGHT?ENGINE INOPERATIVE (AMEL and AMES)
REFERENCES: FAA-H-8083-3, AC 61-23/FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant exhibits knowledge of the elements related to engine inoperative principles of flight by explaining the:
1. meaning of the term “critical engine.”
2. effects of density altitude on the VMC demonstration.
3. effects of airplane weight and center of gravity on control.
4. effects of angle of bank on VMC.
5. relationship of VMC to stall speed.
6. reasons for loss of directional control.
7. indications of loss of directional control.
8. importance of maintaining the proper pitch and bank attitude, and the proper coordination of controls.
9. loss of directional control recovery procedure.
10. engine failure during takeoff including planning, decisions, and single-engine operations.
I. TASK: WATER AND SEAPLANE CHARACTERISTICS (AMES)
REFERENCE: FAA-H-8083-3.
Objective. To determine that the applicant exhibits knowledge of the elements related to water and seaplane characteristics by explaining:
1. The characteristics of a water surface as affected by features, such as -
a. size and location.
b. protected and unprotected areas.
c. surface wind.
d. direction and strength of water current.
e. floating and partially submerged debris.
f. sandbars, islands, and shoals.
g. vessel traffic and wakes.
h. other features peculiar to the area.
2. Float and hull construction, and their effect on seaplane performance.
3. Causes of porpoising and skipping, and the pilot action required to prevent or correct these occurrences.
J. TASK: SEAPLANE BASES, MARITIME RULES, AND AIDS TO MARINE NAVIGATION (AMES)
REFERENCES: FAA-H-8083-3; AIM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant exhibits knowledge of the elements related to seaplane bases, maritime rules, and aids to marine navigation by explaining:
1. How to locate and identify seaplane bases on charts or in directories.
2. Operating restrictions at various bases.
3. Right-of-way, steering, and sailing rules pertinent to seaplane operation.
4. Marine navigation aids, such as buoys, beacons, lights, and sound signals.
K. TASK: AEROMEDICAL FACTORS (AMEL and AMES)
REFERENCES: AC 61-23/FAA/H-8083-25; 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 four (4) 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.
h. dehydration.
2. The effects of alcohol, drugs, and over-the-counter medications.
3. The effects of excess nitrogen during scuba dives upon a pilot or passenger in flight.
II. AREA OF OPERATION: PREFLIGHT PROCEDURES
A. TASK: PREFLIGHT INSPECTION (AMEL and AMES)
REFERENCES: FAA-H-8083-3; POH/AFM.
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 an appropriate checklist.
3. Verifies that the airplane is in condition for safe flight.
B. TASK: COCKPIT MANAGEMENT (AMEL and AMES)
REFERENCES: FAA-H-8083-3; POH/AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to cockpit management procedures.
2. Ensures all loose items in the cockpit and cabin are secured.
3. Organizes material and equipment in an efficient manner so they are readily available.
4. Briefs occupants on the use of safety belts, shoulder harnesses, doors, and emergency procedures.
C. TASK: ENGINE STARTING (AMEL and AMES)
REFERENCES: FAA-H-8083-3, AC 61-23/FAA-H-8083-25, AC 91-13, AC 91-55; POH/AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to recommended engine starting procedures. This shall include the use of an external power source, and starting under various atmospheric conditions.
2. Positions the airplane properly considering structures, surface conditions, other aircraft, and the safety of nearby persons and property.
3. Utilizes the appropriate checklist for starting procedure.
D. TASK: TAXIING (AMEL)
REFERENCES: FAA-H-8083-3; POH/AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to safe taxi procedures.
2. Performs a brake check immediately after the airplane begins moving.
3. Positions flight controls properly for the existing wind conditions.
4. Controls direction and speed without excessive use of brakes.
5. Complies with airport/taxiway markings, signals, ATC clearances, and instructions.
6. Taxies so as to avoid other aircraft and hazards.
E. TASK: TAXIING AND SAILING (AMES)
REFERENCES: FAA-H-8083-3; USCG NAVIGATION RULES, INTERNATIONAL - INLAND; POH/AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to water taxi and sailing procedures.
2. Positions the flight controls properly for the existing wind conditions.
3. Plans and follows the most favorable course while taxi or sailing considering wind, water current, water conditions and maritime regulations.
4. Uses the appropriate idle, plow, or step taxi technique.
5. Uses flight controls, flaps, doors, water rudder, and power correctly so as to follow the desired course while sailing.
6. Prevents and corrects for porpoising and skipping.
7. Avoids other aircraft, vessels, and hazards.
8. Complies with seaplane base signs, signals, and clearances.
F. TASK: BEFORE TAKEOFF CHECK (AMEL and AMES)
REFERENCES: FAA-H-8083-3; POH/AFM.
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/vessels, wind and surface conditions.
3. Divides attention inside and outside the cockpit.
4. Ensures the engine temperatures and pressure are suitable for run-up and takeoff.
5. Accomplishes the before takeoff checklist and ensures the airplane is in safe operating condition.
6. Reviews takeoff performance airspeeds, takeoff distances, departures and emergency procedures.
7. Avoids runway incursion and/or ensures no conflict with traffic prior to taxiing into takeoff position.
III. AREA OF OPERATION: AIRPORT AND SEAPLANE BASE OPERATIONS
A. TASK: RADIO COMMUNICATIONS AND ATC LIGHT SIGNALS (AMEL and AMES)
REFERENCES: 14 CFR part 91; AC 61-23/FAA-H-8083-25; AIM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to radi communications and ATC light signals.
2. Selects appropriate frequencies.
3. Transmits using recommended phraseology.
4. Acknowledges radio communications and complies with instructions.
B. TASK: TRAFFIC PATTERNS (AMEL and AMES)
REFERENCES: FAA-H-8083-3, AC 61-23/FAA-H-8083-25, AC 90-66; AIM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to traffic patterns. This shall include procedures at airports with and without operating control towers, prevention of runway incursions, collision avoidance, wake turbulence avoidance, and wind shear.
2. Complies with proper traffic pattern procedures.
3. Maintains proper spacing from other aircraft.
4. Corrects for wind-drift to maintain proper ground track.
5. Maintains orientation with runway/landing area in use.
6. Maintains traffic pattern altitude ±100 feet (30 meters), and appropriate airspeed ±10 knots.
C. TASK: AIRPORT/SEAPLANE BASE, RUNWAY, AND TAXIWAY SIGNS, MARKINGS, AND LIGHTING (AMEL and AMES)
REFERENCES: AC 61-23/FAA-H-8083-25; AIM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to airport/seaplane base, runway, and taxiway operations with emphasis on runway incursion avoidance.
2. Properly identifies and interprets airport/seaplane base, runway, and taxiway signs, markings, and lighting.
IV.AREA OF OPERATION: TAKEOFFS, LANDINGS, AND GO-AROUNDS
A. TASK: NORMAL AND CROSSWIND TAKEOFF AND CLIMB (AMEL and AMES)
NOTE: If a crosswind condition does not exist, the applicant's knowledge of crosswind elements shall be evaluated through oral testing.
REFERENCES: FAA-H-8083-3; POH/AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to normal and crosswind takeoff, climb operations, and rejected takeoff procedures.
2. Positions the flight controls for the existing wind conditions.
3. Clears the area, taxies onto the takeoff surface and aligns the airplane on the runway center/takeoff path.
4. Retracts the water rudders as appropriate, (AMES) advances the throttles smoothly to takeoff power.
5. Establishes and maintains the most efficient planing/lift off attitude and corrects for porpoising and skipping (AMES).
6. Lifts off at the recommended airspeed and accelerates to VY.
7. Establishes a pitch attitude that will maintain VY ±5 knots.
8. Retracts the landing gear, if appropriate, and flaps after a positive rate of climb is established.
9. Maintains takeoff power and VY ±5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.
10. Maintains directional control, proper wind-drift correction throughout the takeoff and climb.
11. Complies with noise abatement procedures.
12. Completes appropriate checklists.
B. TASK: NORMAL AND CROSSWIND APPROACH AND LANDING (AMEL and AMES)
NOTE: If a crosswind condition does not exist, the applicant's knowledge of the crosswind elements shall be evaluated through oral testing.
REFERENCES: FAA-H-8083-3; POH/AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to normal and crosswind approach and landing.
2. Adequately surveys the intended landing area (AMES).
3. Considers the wind conditions, landing surface, obstructions, and selects a suitable touchdown point.
4. Establishes the recommended approach and landing configuration and airspeed and adjusts pitch attitude and power as required.
5. Maintains a stabilized approach and recommended airspeed, or in its absence, not more than 1.3 VSO, ±5 knots, with wind gust factor applied.
6. Makes smooth, timely, and correct control application during the roundout and touchdown.
7. Contacts the water at the proper pitch attitude (AMES).
8. Touches down smoothly at approximate stalling speed (AMEL).
9. Touches down at or within 200 feet (60 meters) beyond a specified point, with no drift, and with the airplane's longitudinal axis aligned with and over the runway center/landing path.
10. Maintains crosswind correction and directional control throughout the approach and landing sequence.
11. Completes appropriate checklist.
C. TASK: SHORT-FIELD TAKEOFF (CONFINED AREA - AMEL) AND MAXIMUM PREFORMANCE CLIMB (AMEL and AMES)
REFERENCES: FAA-H-8083-3; POH/AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to a short-field confined area (AMES) takeoff and maximum performance climb.
2. Positions the flight controls for the existing wind conditions, sets flaps as recommended.
3. Clears the area; taxies into takeoff position utilizing maximum available takeoff area and aligns the airplane on the runway center/takeoff path.
4. Selects an appropriate take-off path for the existing conditions (AMES).
5. Applies brakes (if appropriate) while advancing the throttles smoothly to takeoff power.
6. Establishes and maintains the most efficient planing/lift off attitude and corrects for porpoising and skipping (AMES).
7. Lifts off at the recommended airspeed, and accelerates to recommended obstacle clearance airspeed, or VX.
8. Establishes a pitch attitude that will maintain the recommended obstacle clearance airspeed, or VX, +5/-0 knots, until the obstacle is cleared, or until the airplane is 50 feet (20 meters) above the surface.
9. After clearing the obstacle, establishes the pitch attitude for VY, accelerates to VY, and maintains VY, ±5 knots, during the climb.
10. Retracts the landing gear, if appropriate, and flaps after clear of any obstacles or as recommended by manufacturer.
11. Maintains takeoff power and VY ±5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.
12. Maintains directional control and proper wind-drift correction throughout the takeoff and climb.
13. Completes appropriate checklist.
D. TASK: SHORT-FIELD (CONFINED AREA - AMES) APPROACH AND LANDING (AMEL and AMES)
REFERENCES: FAA-H-8083-3; POH/AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to a short-field (confined area AMES) approach and landing.
2. Adequately surveys the intended landing area (AMES).
3. Considers the wind conditions, landing surface, obstructions, and selects the most suitable touchdown point.
4. Establishes the recommended approach and landing configuration and airspeed; adjusts pitch attitude and power as required.
5. Maintains a stabilized approach and recommended approach airspeed, or in its absence, not more than 1.3 VSO, ±5 knots, with wind gust factor applied.
6. Makes smooth, timely, and correct control application during the roundout and touchdown.
7. Selects the proper landing path, contacts the water at the minimum safe airspeed with the proper pitch attitude for the surface conditions (AMES).
8. Touches down smoothly at minimum control airspeed (AMEL).
9. Touches down at or within 100 feet (30 meters) beyond a specified point, with no side drift, minimum float, and with the airplane's longitudinal axis aligned with and over the runway center/landing path.
10. Maintains crosswind correction and directional control throughout the approach and landing sequence.
11. Applies brakes (AMEL) or elevator control (AMES), as necessary, to stop in the shortest distance consistent with safety.
12. Completes appropriate checklist.
E. TASK: GLASSY WATER TAKEOFF AND CLIMB (AMES)
NOTE: If a glassy water condition does not exist, the applicant shall be evaluated by simulating the TASK.
REFERENCES: FAA-H-8083-3; POH/AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to glassy water takeoff and climb.
2. Positions the flight controls and flaps for the existing conditions.
3. Clears the area; selects an appropriate takeoff path considering surface hazards and/or vessels and surface conditions.
4. Retracts the water rudders as appropriate; advances the throttle smoothly to takeoff power.
5. Establishes and maintains an appropriate planing attitude, directional control, and corrects for porpoising, skipping, and increases in water drag.
6. Utilizes appropriate techniques to lift seaplane from the water considering surface conditions.
7. Establishes proper attitude/airspeed, and accelerates to VY, ± 5 knots during the climb.
8. Retracts the landing gear, if appropriate, and flaps after a positive rate of climb is established.
9. Maintains takeoff power and VY ±5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.
10. Maintains directional control and proper wind-drift correction throughout takeoff and climb.
11. Completes the appropriate checklist.
F. TASK: GLASSY WATER APPROACH AND LANDING (AMES)
NOTE: If a glassy water condition does not exist, the applicant shall be evaluated by simulating the TASK.
REFERENCES: FAA-H-8083-3; POH/AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to glassy water approach and landing.
2. Adequately surveys the intended landing area.
3. Considers the wind conditions, water depth, hazards, surrounding terrain, and other watercraft.
4. Selects the most suitable approach path and touchdown area.
5. Establishes the recommended approach and landing configuration and airspeed, and adjusts pitch attitude and power as required.
6. Maintains a stabilized approach and the recommended approach airspeed, ± 5 knots and maintains a touchdown pitch attitude and descent rate from the last altitude reference until touchdown.
7. Makes smooth, timely, and correct power and control adjustments to maintain proper pitch attitude and rate of descent to touchdown.
8. Contacts the water in the proper pitch attitude, and slows to idle taxi speed.
9. Maintains crosswind correction and directional control throughout the approach and landing sequence.
10. Completes the appropriate checklist.
G. TASK: ROUGH WATER TAKEOFF AND CLIMB (AMES)
NOTE: If a rough water condition does not exist, the applicant shall be evaluated by simulating the TASK.
REFERENCES: FAA-H-8083-3; POH/AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to rough water takeoff and climb.
2. Positions the flight controls and flaps for the existing conditions.
3. Clears the area; selects an appropriate takeoff path considering wind, swells surface hazards, and/or vessels.
4. Retracts the water rudders as appropriate; advances the throttle smoothly to takeoff power.
5. Establishes and maintains an appropriate planing attitude, directional control, and corrects for porpoising, skipping, or excessive bouncing.
6. Lifts off at minimum airspeed and accelerates to VY, ± 5 knots before leaving ground effect.
7. Retracts the landing gear, if appropriate, and flaps after a positive rate of climb is established.
8. Maintains takeoff power and VY ±5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.
9. Maintains directional control and proper wind-drift correction throughout takeoff and climb.
10. Completes the appropriate checklist.
H. TASK: ROUGH WATER APPROACH AND LANDING (AMES)
NOTE: If a rough water condition does not exist, the applicant shall be evaluated by simulating the TASK.
REFERENCES: FAA-H-8083-3; POH/AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to rough water approach and landing.
2. Adequately surveys the intended landing area.
3. Considers the wind conditions, water, depth, hazards, surrounding terrain, and other watercraft.
4. Selects the most suitable approach path, and touchdown area.
5. Establishes the recommended approach and landing configuration and airspeed, and adjusts pitch attitude and power as required.
6. Maintains a stabilized approach and the recommended approach airspeed, or in its absence not more than 1.3 VSO ± 5 knots with wind gust factor applied.
7. Makes smooth, timely, and correct power and control application during the roundout and touch down.
8. Contacts the water in the proper pitch attitude, and at the proper airspeed, considering the type of rough water.
9. Maintains crosswind correction and directional control throughout the approach and landing sequence.
10. Completes the appropriate checklist.
I. TASK: GO-AROUND/REJECTED LANDING (AMEL and AMES)
REFERENCES: FAA-H-8083-3; POH/AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits knowledge of the elements related to a goaround/ rejected landing.
2. Makes a timely decision to discontinue the approach to landing.
3. Applies takeoff power immediately and transitions to climb pitch attitude for VY and maintains VY ±5 knots.
4. Retracts flaps, as appropriate.
5. Retracts the landing gear if appropriate after a positive rate of climb is established.
6. Maneuvers to the side of runway/landing area to clear and avoid conflicting traffic.
7. Maintains takeoff power and VY ±5 knots to a safe maneuvering altitude.
8. Maintains directional control and proper wind-drift correction throughout the climb.
9. Completes the appropriate checklist.
