Airman Certification Standards
ACS PA.IX.G
Approach and Landing with an Inoperative Engine (Simulated)(AMEL, AMES)
Knowledge
Factors affecting minimum controllable speed (VMC).
VMC (red line) and best single-engine rate of climb airspeed (VYSE) (blue line).
How to identify, verify, feather, and secure an inoperative engine.
Importance of drag reduction, including propeller feathering, gear and flap retraction, the manufacturer’s recommended control input and its relation to zero sideslip.
Applicant responsibilities during simulated feathering.
Risk Management
Potential engine failure inflight or during an approach.
Collision hazards.
Configuring the airplane.
Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).
Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
Possible single-engine go-around.
Skill
Promptly recognize an engine failure and maintain positive aircraft control.
Set the engine controls, reduce drag, identify and verify the inoperative engine, and simulate feathering of the propeller on the inoperative engine (evaluator should then establish zero thrust on the inoperative engine).
Use flight controls in the proper combination as recommended by the manufacturer, or as required to maintain best performance, and trim as required.
Follow the manufacturer’s recommended emergency procedures and complete the appropriate checklist. Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)57
Monitor the operating engine and aircraft systems and make adjustments as necessary.
Maintain the manufacturer’s recommended approach airspeed +10/-5 knots, in the landing configuration with a stabilized approach, until landing is assured.
Make smooth, timely, and correct control application before, during, and after touchdown.
Touch down on the first one-third of available runway/landing surface, with no drift, and the airplane’s longitudinal axis aligned with and over the runway center or landing path.
Maintain directional control and appropriate crosswind correction throughout the approach and landing.
Complete the appropriate checklist(s). Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)58
Retrieved from ecfr.gov on July 17, 2026.