Airman Certification Standards

ACS PA.VIII.C

Constant Airspeed Descents

This reproduces published FAA reference text for study. It does not replace the current official FAA publication or regulation.

Knowledge

Flight instruments as they relate to:

K1a

a. Instrument limitations and potential errors

K1b

b. Indication of the aircraft attitude

K1c

c. Function and operation

K1d

d. Proper instrument cross-check techniques

Risk Management

Instrument flying hazards, including failure to maintain visual flight rules (VFR), spatial disorientation, loss of control, fatigue, stress, and emergency off airport landings. Private Pilot for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)48

When to seek assistance or declare an emergency in a deteriorating situation.

Collision hazards.

Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.

Fixation and omission.

Instrument Interpretation.

Control application solely by reference to instruments.

Trimming the aircraft.

Skill

Transition to the descent pitch attitude and power setting on an assigned heading using proper instrument cross-check and interpretation, and coordinated flight control application.

Descend at a constant airspeed to specific altitudes in straight flight and turns.

Level off at the assigned altitude and maintain altitude ±200 feet, heading ±20°, and airspeed ±10 knots.

Retrieved from ecfr.gov on July 17, 2026.