Airman Certification Standards
ACS CA.IV.H
Confined Area Approach and Landing (ASES, AMES)
Knowledge
A stabilized approach, including energy management concepts.
Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on approach and landing performance.
Wind correction techniques on approach and landing.
Risk Management
Selection of approach path and touchdown area based on pilot capability, airplane performance and limitations, available distance, and wind.
a. Crosswind
b. Windshear 28
d. Wake turbulence
e. Water surface/condition
Planning for a go-around and rejected landing.
Collision hazards.
Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).
Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
Skill
Complete the appropriate checklist(s).
Make radio calls as appropriate.
Ensure the airplane is aligned for an approach to the correct/assigned landing surface.
Scan the landing area for traffic and obstructions.
Select and aim for a suitable touchdown point considering the wind conditions, landing surface, and obstructions.
Establish the recommended approach and landing configuration, airspeed, and trim, and adjust pitch attitude and power as required to maintain a stabilized approach.
Maintain manufacturer’s published approach airspeed or in its absence not more than 1.3 VSO, +10/-5 knots with gust factor applied.
Maintain directional control and appropriate crosswind correction throughout the approach and landing.
Make smooth, timely, and correct control application before, during, and after touchdown.
Contact the water at the recommended airspeed with a proper pitch attitude for the surface conditions.
Touch down at a proper pitch attitude, within 100 feet beyond or on the specified point, with no side drift, minimum float, and with the airplane’s longitudinal axis aligned with the projected landing path.
Execute a timely go-around if the approach cannot be made within the tolerances specified above or for any other condition that may result in an unsafe approach or landing.
Apply elevator control as necessary to stop in the shortest distance consistent with safety.
Retrieved from ecfr.gov on July 17, 2026.