PREFLIGHT PREPARATION Equipment Knowledge Index
A. TASK: EQUIPMENT EXAMINATION
REFERENCES: FAR Part 61; Pilot's Operating Handbook, FAA Approved Airplane Flight Manual (AFM).
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits adequate knowledge appropriate to the airplane; its systems and components; its normal, abnormal, and emergency procedures; and uses the correct terminology with regard to the following items—
a. landing gear—indicators, brakes, antiskid, tires, nose-wheel steering, and shock absorbers.
b. powerplant—controls and indications, induction system, carburetor and fuel injection, turbocharging, cooling, fire detection/protection, mounting points, turbine wheels, compressors, deicing, anti-icing, and other related components.
c. propellers—type, controls, feathering/unfeathering, autofeather, negative torque sensing, synchronizing, and synchrophasing.
d. fuel system—capacity; drains; pumps; controls; indicators; crossfeeding; transferring; jettison; fuel grade, color and additives; fueling and defueling procedures; and substitutions, if applicable.
e. oil system—capacity, grade, quantities, and indicators.
f. hydraulic system—capacity, pumps, pressure, reservoirs, grade, and regulators.
g. electrical system—alternators, generators, battery, circuit breakers and protection devices, controls, indicators, and external and auxiliary power sources and ratings.
h. environmental systems—heating, cooling, ventilation, oxygen and pressurization, controls, indicators, and regulating devices.
i. avionics and communications—autopilot; flight director; Electronic Flight Indicating Systems (EFIS); Flight Management System(s) (FMS); Long Range Navigation (LORAN) systems; Doppler Radar; Inertial Navigation Systems (INS); Global Positioning System (GPS/DGPS/WGPS); VOR, NDB, ILS/MLS, RNAV systems and components; indicating devices; transponder; and emergency locator transmitter.
j. ice protection—anti-ice, deice, pitot-static system protection, propeller, windshield, wing and tail surfaces.
k. crewmember and passenger equipment—oxygen system, survival gear, emergency exits, evacuation procedures and crew duties, and quick donning oxygen mask for crewmembers and passengers.
l. flight controls—ailerons, elevator(s), rudder(s), control tabs, balance tabs, stabilizer, flaps, spoilers, leading edge flaps/slats and trim systems.
 
2. Exhibits adequate knowledge of the contents of the Operating Handbook or AFM with regard to the systems and components listed in paragraph 1 (above); the Minimum Equipment List (MEL), if appropriate, and the Operations Specifications, if applicable.
B. TASK: PERFORMANCE AND LIMITATIONS
REFERENCES: FAR Parts 1, 61, 91; Pilot's Operating Handbook, AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits adequate knowledge of performance and limitations, including a thorough knowledge of the adverse effects of exceeding any limitation.
2. Demonstrates proficient use of (as appropriate to the airplane) performance charts, tables, graphs, or other data relating to items such as—
a. accelerate-stop distance.
b. accelerate-go distance.
c. takeoff performance, all engines, engine(s) inoperative.
d. climb performance including segmented climb performance; with all engines operating; with one or more engine(s) inoperative, and with other engine malfunctions as may be appropriate.
e. service ceiling, all engines, engines(s) inoperative, including Drift Down, if appropriate.
f. cruise performance.
g. fuel consumption, range, and endurance.
h. descent performance.
i. go-around from rejected landings.
j. other performance data (appropriate to the airplane).
3. Describes (as appropriate to the airplane) the airspeeds used during specific phases of flight.
4. Describes the effects of meteorological conditions upon performance characteristics and correctly applies these factors to a specific chart, table, graph or other performance data.
5. Computes the center-of-gravity location for a specific load condition (as specified by the examiner), including adding, removing, or shifting weight.
6. Determines if the computed center of gravity is within the forward and aft center-of-gravity limits, and that lateral fuel balance is within limits for takeoff and landing.
7. Demonstrates good planning and knowledge of procedures in applying operational factors affecting airplane performance.
 
I. PREFLIGHT PROCEDURES Index
A. TASK: PREFLIGHT INSPECTION
REFERENCES: FAR Parts 61, 91; Pilot's Operating Handbook, AFM.
NOTE: If a flight engineer (FE) is a required crewmember for a particular type airplane, the actual visual inspection may be waived. The actual visual inspection may be replaced by using an approved pictorial means that realistically portrays the location and detail of inspection items. On airplanes requiring an FE, an applicant must demonstrate adequate knowledge of the FE functions for the safe completion of the flight if the FE becomes ill or incapacitated during a flight.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits adequate knowledge of the preflight inspection procedures, while explaining briefly—
a. the purpose of inspecting the items which must be checked.
b. how to detect possible defects.
c. the corrective action to take.
2. Exhibits adequate knowledge of the operational status of the airplane by locating and explaining the significance and importance of related documents such as—
a. airworthiness and registration certificates.
b. operating limitations, handbooks, and manuals.
c. minimum equipment list (MEL) (if appropriate).
d. weight and balance data.
e. maintenance requirements, tests, and appropriate records applicable to the proposed flight or operation; and maintenance that may be performed by the pilot or other designated crewmember.
3. Uses the approved checklist to inspect the airplane externally and internally.
4. Uses the challenge-and-response (or other approved) method with the other crewmember(s), where applicable, to accomplish the checklist procedures.
5. Verifies the airplane is safe for flight by emphasizing (as appropriate) the need to look at and explain the purpose of inspecting items such as—
a. powerplant, including controls and indicators.
b. fuel quantity, grade, type, contamination safeguards, and servicing procedures.
c. oil quantity, grade, and type.
d. hydraulic fluid quantity, grade, type, and servicing procedures.
e. oxygen quantity, pressures, servicing procedures, and associated systems and equipment for crew and passengers.
f. landing gear, brakes, and steering system.
g. tires for condition, inflation, and correct mounting, where applicable.
h. fire protection/detection systems for proper operation, servicing, pressures, and discharge indications.
i. pneumatic system pressures and servicing.
j. ground environmental systems for proper servicing and operation.
k. auxiliary power unit (APU) for servicing and operation.
l. flight control systems including trim, spoilers, and leading/trailing edge.
m. anti-ice, deice systems, servicing, and operation.
6. Coordinates with ground crew and ensures adequate clearance prior to moving any devices such as door, hatches, and flight control surfaces.
7. Complies with the provisions of the appropriate Operations Specifications, if applicable, as they pertain to the particular airplane and operation.
8. Demonstrates proper operation of all applicable airplane systems.
9. Notes any discrepancies, determines if the airplane is airworthy and safe for flight, or takes the proper corrective action.
10. Checks the general area around the airplane for hazards to the safety of the airplane and personnel.
 
II. GROUND OPERATIONS Index
A. TASK: POWERPLANT START
REFERENCES: FAR Part 61; Pilot's Operating Handbook, AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits adequate knowledge of the correct powerplant start procedures including the use of an auxiliary power unit (APU) or external power source, starting under various atmospheric conditions, normal and abnormal starting limitations, and the proper action required in the event of a malfunction.
2. Ensures the ground safety procedures are followed during the before-start, start, and after-start phases.
3. Ensures the use of appropriate ground crew personnel during the start procedures.
4. Performs all items of the start procedures by systematically following the approved checklist items for the before-start, start, and after-start phases.
5. Demonstrates sound judgment and operating practices in those instances where specific instructions or checklist items are not published.
 
B. TASK: TAXIING
REFERENCES: FAR Part 61; Pilot's Operating Handbook, AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits adequate knowledge of safe taxi procedures (as appropriate to the airplane including push-back or power-back, as may be applicable).
2. Demonstrates proficiency by maintaining correct and positive airplane control. In airplanes equipped with float devices, this includes water taxiing, approaching a buoy, and docking.
3. Maintains proper spacing on other aircraft, obstructions, and persons.
4. Accomplishes the applicable checklist items and performs recommended procedures.
5. Maintains desired track and speed.
6. Complies with instructions issued by ATC (or the examiner simulating ATC).
 
7. Observes runway hold lines, localizer and glide slope critical areas, and other surface control markings and lighting.
8. Maintains constant vigilance and airplane control during taxi operation.
C. TASK: PRETAKEOFF CHECKS
REFERENCES: FAR Part 61; Pilot's Operating Handbook, AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits adequate knowledge of the pretakeoff checks by stating the reason for checking the items outlined on the approved checklist and explaining how to detect possible malfunctions.
2. Divides attention properly inside and outside cockpit.
3. Ensures that all systems are within their normal operating range prior to beginning, during the performance of, and at the completion of those checks required by the approved checklist.
4. Explains, as may be requested by the examiner, any normal or abnormal system operating characteristic or limitation; and the corrective action for a specific malfunction.
5. Determines if the airplane is safe for the proposed flight or requires maintenance.
6. Determines the airplane’s takeoff performance, considering such factors as wind, density altitude, weight, temperature, pressure altitude, and runway condition and length.
7. Determines airspeeds/V-speeds and properly sets all instrument references, flight director and autopilot controls, and navigation and communications equipment.
8. Reviews procedures for emergency and abnormal situations which may be encountered during takeoff, and states the corrective action required of the pilot in command and other concerned crewmembers.
9. Obtains and correctly interprets the takeoff and departure clearance as issued by ATC.
III. TAKEOFF AND DEPARTURE MANEUVERS Index
A. TASK: NORMAL AND CROSSWIND TAKEOFF
REFERENCES: FAR Part 61; Pilot's Operating Handbook, AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits adequate knowledge of normal and crosswind takeoffs and climbs including (as appropriate to the airplane) airspeeds, configurations, and emergency/ abnormal procedures.
2. Notes any obstructions or other hazards that might hinder a safe takeoff.
3. Verifies and correctly applies correction for the existing wind component to the takeoff performance.
4. Completes required checks prior to starting takeoff to verify the expected powerplant performance. Performs all required pretakeoff checks as required by the appropriate checklist items.
5. Aligns the airplane on the runway centerline.
6. Applies the controls correctly to maintain longitudinal alignment on the centerline of the runway prior to initiating and during the takeoff.
7. Adjusts the powerplant controls as recommended by the FAA-approved guidance for the existing conditions.
8. Monitors powerplant controls, settings, and instruments during takeoff to ensure all predetermined parameters are maintained.
9. Adjusts the controls to attain the desired pitch attitude at the predetermined airspeed/V-speed to attain the desired performance for the particular takeoff segment.
10. Performs the required pitch changes and, as appropriate, performs or calls for and verifies the accomplishment of, gear and flap retractions, power adjustments, and other required pilot-related activities at the required
airspeed/V-speeds within the tolerances established in the Pilot's Operating Handbook or AFM.
11. Uses the applicable noise abatement, wake turbulence avoidance procedures, as required.
12. Accomplishes or calls for and verifies the accomplishment of the appropriate checklist items.
13. Maintains the appropriate climb segment
airspeed/V-speeds.
14. Maintains the desired heading within ±5° and the desired airspeed/V-speed within ±5 knots or the appropriate
V-speed range.
 
B. TASK: INSTRUMENT TAKEOFF
REFERENCES: FAR Part 61; AC 61-27; Pilot's Operating Handbook, AFM, AIM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits adequate knowledge of an instrument takeoff with instrument meteorological conditions simulated at or before reaching an altitude of 100 feet (30 meters) AGL. If accomplished in a flight simulator, visibility should be no greater than one-quarter (1/4) mile, or as specified by operator specifications.
2. Takes into account, prior to beginning the takeoff, operational factors which could affect the maneuver such as Takeoff Warning Inhibit Systems or other airplane characteristics, runway length, surface conditions, wind, wake turbulence, obstructions, and other related factors that could adversely affect safety.
3. Accomplishes the appropriate checklist items to ensure that the airplane systems applicable to the instrument takeoff are operating properly.
4. Sets the applicable radios/flight instruments to the desired setting prior to initiating the takeoff.
5. Applies the controls correctly to maintain longitudinal alignment on the centerline of the runway prior to initiating and during the takeoff.
6. Transitions smoothly and accurately from visual meteorological conditions to actual or simulated instrument meteorological conditions.
7. Maintains the appropriate climb attitude.
8. Complies with the appropriate airspeeds/V-speeds and climb segment airspeeds.
9. Maintains desired heading within ±5° and desired airspeeds within ±5 knots.
10. Complies with ATC clearances and instructions issued by ATC (or the examiner simulating ATC).
C. TASK: POWERPLANT FAILURE DURING TAKEOFF
REFERENCES: FAR Part 61; AC 61-21; Pilot's Operating Handbook, AFM; DOT/FAA Takeoff Safety Training Aid.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits adequate knowledge of the procedures used during powerplant failure on takeoff, the appropriate reference airspeeds, and the specific pilot actions required.
2. Takes into account, prior to beginning the takeoff, operational factors which could affect the maneuver such as Takeoff Warning Inhibit Systems or other airplane characteristics, runway length, surface conditions, wind, wake turbulence, obstructions, and other related factors that could adversely affect safety.
3. Completes required checks prior to starting takeoff to verify the expected powerplant performance. Performs all required pretakeoff checks as required by the appropriate checklist items.
4. Aligns the airplane on the runway.
5. Applies the controls correctly to maintain longitudinal alignment on the centerline of the runway prior to initiating and during the takeoff.
6. Adjusts the powerplant controls as recommended by the FAA-approved guidance for the existing conditions.
7. Single-Engine Airplanes: Establishes a power-off descent approximately straight-ahead, if the powerplant failure occurs after becoming airborne.
8. Continues the takeoff (in a multiengine airplane) if the powerplant failure occurs at a point where the airplane can continue to a specified airspeed and altitude at the end of the runway commensurate with the airplane’s performance capabilities and operating limitations.
9. Maintains (in a multiengine airplane), after a simulated powerplant failure and after a climb has been established, the desired heading within ±5°, desired airspeed within ±5 knots, and, if appropriate for the airplane, establishes a bank of approximately 5°, or as recommended by the manufacturer, toward the operating powerplant.
10. In a multiengine airplane with published V1, VR, and/or V2 speeds, the failure of the most critical powerplant should be simulated at a point:
a. After V1 and prior to V2, if in the opinion of the examiner, it is appropriate under the prevailing conditions; or
b. As close as possible after V1 when V1 and V2 or V1 and VR are identical.
11. In a multiengine airplane for which no V1, VR, or V2 speeds are published, the failure of the most critical powerplant should be simulated at a point after reaching a minimum of VMCA and, if accomplished in the aircraft, at an altitude not lower than 500 feet AGL.
12. Maintains the airplane alignment with the heading appropriate for climb performance and terrain clearance when powerplant failure occurs.
 
D. TASK: REJECTED TAKEOFF
REFERENCES: FAR Part 61; AC 61-21; Pilot's Operating Handbook, AFM; DOT/FAA Takeoff Safety Training Aid.
 
Objective. To determine that the applicant understands when to reject or continue the takeoff:
1. Exhibits adequate knowledge of the technique and procedure for accomplishing a rejected takeoff after powerplant/system(s) failure/warnings, including related safety factors.
2. Takes into account, prior to beginning the takeoff, operational factors which could affect the maneuver such as Takeoff Warning Inhibit Systems or other airplane characteristics, runway length, surface conditions, wind, obstructions, and other related factors that could affect takeoff performance and could adversely affect safety.
3. Aligns the airplane on the runway centerline.
4. Performs all required pretakeoff checks as required by the appropriate checklist items.
5. Adjusts the powerplant controls as recommended by the FAA-approved guidance for the existing conditions.
6. Applies the controls correctly to maintain longitudinal alignment on the centerline of the runway.
7. Aborts the takeoff if, in a single-engine airplane the powerplant failure occurs prior to becoming airborne, or in a multiengine airplane, the powerplant failure occurs at a point during the takeoff where the abort procedure can be initiated and the airplane can be safely stopped on the remaining runway/stopway. If a flight simulator is not used, the powerplant failure should be simulated before reaching 50 percent of VMC.
8. Reduces the power smoothly and promptly, if appropriate to the airplane, when powerplant failure is recognized.
9. Uses spoilers, prop reverse, thrust reverse, wheel brakes, and other drag/braking devices, as appropriate, maintaining positive control in such a manner as to bring the airplane to a safe stop. Accomplishes the appropriate powerplant failure or other procedures and/or checklists as set forth in the pilot operating handbook or AFM.
 
E. TASK: INSTRUMENT DEPARTURE
REFERENCES: FAR Part 61; AC 61-27; Pilot's Operating Handbook, AFM, AIM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits adequate knowledge of SIDs, En Route Low/High Altitude Charts, STARs and related pilot/controller responsibilities.
2. Uses the current and appropriate navigation publications for the proposed flight.
3. Selects and uses the appropriate communications frequencies, and selects and identifies the navigation aids associated with the proposed flight.
4. Performs the appropriate checklist items.
5. Establishes communications with ATC, using proper phraseology.
6. Complies, in a timely manner, with all instructions and airspace restrictions.
7. Exhibits adequate knowledge of two-way radio communications failure procedures.
8. Intercepts, in a timely manner, all courses, radials, and bearings appropriate to the procedure, route, clearance, or as directed by the examiner.
9. Maintains the appropriate airspeed within ±10 knots, headings within ±10°, altitude within ±100 feet (30 meters); and accurately tracks a course, radial, or bearing.
10. Conducts the departure phase to a point where, in the opinion of the examiner, the transition to the en route environment is complete.
 
IV. INFLIGHT MANEUVERS Index
A. TASK: STEEP TURNS
REFERENCES: FAR Part 61; AC 61-27; FSB Report; Pilot's Operating Handbook, AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits adequate knowledge of steep turns (if applicable to the airplane) and the factors associated with performance; and, if applicable, wing loading, angle of bank, stall speed, pitch, power requirements, and over-banking tendencies.
2. Selects an altitude recommended by the manufacturer, training syllabus, or other training directive, but in no case lower than 3,000 feet (900 meters) AGL.
3. Establishes the recommended entry airspeed.
4. Rolls into a coordinated turn of 180° or 360° with a bank of at least 45°. Maintains the bank angle within ±5° while in smooth, stabilized flight.
5. Applies smooth coordinated pitch, bank, and power to maintain the specified altitude within ±100 feet (30 meters) and the desired airspeed within ±10 knots.
6. Rolls out of the turn (at approximately the same rate as used to roll into the turn) within ±10° of the entry or specified heading, stabilizes the airplane in a straight-and-level attitude or, at the discretion of the examiner, reverses the direction of turn and repeats the maneuver in the opposite direction.
7. Avoids any indication of an approaching stall, abnormal flight attitude, or exceeding any structural or operating limitation during any part of the maneuver.
B. TASK: APPROACHES TO STALLS
REFERENCES: FAR Part 61; AC 61-21; FSB Report; Pilot's Operating Handbook, AFM.
THREE approaches to stall are required, as follows (unless otherwise specified by the FSB Report):
1. One in the takeoff configuration (except where the airplane uses only zero-flap takeoff configuration) or approach configuration.
2. One in a clean configuration.
3. One in a landing configuration.
One of these approaches to a stall must be accomplished while in a turn using a bank angle of 15 to 30°.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits adequate knowledge of the factors which influence stall characteristics, including the use of various drag configurations, power settings, pitch attitudes, weights, and bank angles. Also, exhibits adequate knowledge of the proper procedure for resuming normal flight.
2. Selects an entry altitude, when accomplished in an airplane, that is in accordance with the AFM or Operating Handbook, but in no case lower than an altitude that will allow recovery to be safely completed at a minimum of 3,000 feet (900 meters) AGL. When accomplished in an FTD or flight simulator, the entry altitude may be at low, intermediate, or high altitude as appropriate for the airplane and the configuration, at the discretion of the examiner.
3. Observes the area is clear of other aircraft prior to accomplishing an approach to a stall.
4. While maintaining altitude, slowly establishes the pitch attitude (using trim or elevator/stabilizer), bank angle, and power setting that will induce stall at the desired target airspeed.
5. Announces the first indication of an impending stall (such as buffeting, stick shaker, decay of control effectiveness, and any other cues related to the specific airplane design characteristics) and initiates recovery or as directed by the examiner (using maximum power or as directed by the examiner).
6. Recovers to a reference airspeed, altitude and heading, allowing only the acceptable altitude or airspeed loss, and heading deviation.
7. Demonstrates smooth, positive airplane control during entry, approach to a stall, and recovery.
 
C. TASK: Powerplant Failure—Multiengine Airplane
REFERENCES: FAR Part 61; Pilot's Operating Handbook, AFM.
NOTE: When not in an FTD or a flight simulator, the feathering of one propeller must be demonstrated in any multiengine airplane equipped with propellers which can be safely feathered and unfeathered while airborne. In a multiengine jet airplane, one engine must be shut down and a restart must be demonstrated while airborne. Feathering or shutdown should be performed only under conditions, and at such altitudes (no lower than 3,000 feet [900 meters] AGL) and in a position where a safe landing can be made on an established airport in the event difficulty is encountered in unfeathering the propeller or restarting the engine. At an altitude lower than 3,000 feet (900 meters) AGL, simulated engine failure will be performed by setting the powerplant controls to simulate zero-thrust. In the event propeller cannot be unfeathered or engine air started during the test, it should be treated as an emergency.
 
When authorized and conducted in a flight simulator, feathering or shutdown may be performed in conjunction with any procedure or maneuver and at locations and altitudes at the discretion of the examiner. However, when conducted in an FTD, authorizations shall be limited to shutdown, feathering, restart, and/or unfeathering procedures only. See Appendix 1.
 
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits adequate knowledge of the flight characteristics and controllability associated with maneuvering with powerplant(s) inoperative (as appropriate to the airplane).
2. Maintains positive airplane control. Establishes a bank of approximately 5°, if required, or as recommended by the manufacturer, to maintain coordinated flight, and properly trims for that condition.
3. Sets powerplant controls, reduces drag as necessary, correctly identifies and verifies the inoperative powerplant(s) after the failure (or simulated failure).
4. Maintains the operating powerplant(s) within acceptable operating limits.
5. Follows the prescribed airplane checklist, and verifies the procedures for securing the inoperative powerplant(s).
6. Determines the cause for the powerplant(s) failure and if a restart is a viable option.
7. Maintains desired altitude within ±100 feet (30 meters), when a constant altitude is specified and is within the capability of the airplane.
8. Maintains the desired airspeed within ±10 knots.
9. Maintains the desired heading within ±10° of the specified heading.
10. Demonstrates proper powerplant restart procedures (if appropriate) in accordance with FAA approved procedure/checklist or the manufacturer's recommended procedures and pertinent checklist items.
 
D. TASK: Powerplant Failure—Single–Engine Airplane
REFERENCES: FAR Part 61; AC 61-21; Pilot's Operating Handbook, AFM.
NOTE: No simulated powerplant failure shall be given by the examiner in an airplane when an actual touchdown could not be safely completed should it become necessary.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits adequate knowledge of the flight characteristics, approach and forced (emergency) landing procedures, and related procedures to use in the event of a powerplant failure (as appropriate to the airplane).
2. Maintains positive airplane control throughout the maneuver.
3. Establishes and maintains the recommended best glide airspeed, ±5 knots, and configuration during a simulated powerplant failure.
4. Selects a suitable airport or landing area which is within the performance capability of the airplane.
5. Establishes a proper flight pattern to the selected airport or landing area, taking into account altitude, wind, terrain, obstructions, and other pertinent operational factors.
6. Follows the emergency checklist items appropriate to the airplane.
7. Determines the cause for the simulated powerplant failure (if altitude permits) and if a restart is a viable option.
8. Uses airplane configuration devices such as landing gear and flaps in a manner recommended by the manufacturer and/or approved by the FAA.
 
E. TASK: SPECIFIC FLIGHT CHARACTERISTICS
REFERENCES: FAR Part 61; FSB Report; Pilot's Operating Handbook, AFM.
Objective. To determine that the applicant:
1. Exhibits adequate knowledge of specific flight characteristics appropriate to the specific airplane, as identified by the FSB Report, such as Dutch Rolls in a Boeing 727 or Lear Jet.
2. Uses proper technique to enter into, operate within, and recover from specific flight situations.

ATP PTS Index | Airline Transport Pilot