Airman Certification Standards
ACS AI.V.E
Taxiing and Sailing (ASES, AMES)
Knowledge
Procedures for various types of taxiing and sailing.
Current airport aeronautical references and information resources such as the Chart Supplement, airport diagram, and Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs).
Taxi instructions/clearances.
Airport/seaplane base markings, signs, and lights.
Visual indicators for wind.
Airplane lighting.
Procedures for:
a. Appropriate flight deck activities during taxiing or sailing
b. Radio communications at towered and nontowered seaplane bases
Risk Management
Activities and distractions.
Porpoising and skipping.
Low visibility taxi and sailing operations.
Other aircraft, vessels, and hazards.
Confirmation or expectation bias as related to taxi instructions.
Skill
Receive and correctly read back clearances/instructions, if applicable.
Use an appropriate airport diagram or taxi chart, if published.
Comply with seaplane base/airport/taxiway markings, signals, and signs.
Depart the dock/mooring buoy or beach/ramp in a safe manner, considering wind, current, traffic, and hazards. 31
Complete the appropriate checklist(s).
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.
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.
Plan and follow the most favorable taxi or sailing course for current conditions.
Abide by right-of-way rules, maintain positive airplane control, proper speed, and separation between other aircraft, vessels, and persons.
Comply with applicable taxi elements in Task D if the practical test is conducted in an amphibious airplane.
Retrieved from ecfr.gov on July 17, 2026.