About 20 percent of all yearly general aviation (GA) accidents occur during takeoff and departure climbs, and more than half of these accidents result from some type of pilot failure. A significant number of takeoff accidents are caused by a loss of control of the airplane.
Compared with the entire profile of a normal flight, this phase is relatively short, but the pilot’s workload is intense. This section discusses takeoffs and departure climbs in airplanes under normal conditions and under conditions that require maximum performance.
Although it may seem relatively simple, the takeoff often presents more hazards than any other phase of flight. The importance of thorough knowledge of procedures and techniques, combined with proficiency in their application, cannot be overemphasized.
The discussion in this section focuses on airplanes with tricycle landing gear (nosewheel). Procedures for conventional landing gear airplanes (tailwheel) are discussed in the Transition to Tailwheel Airplanes section.
The manufacturer’s recommended procedures pertaining to airplane configuration, airspeeds, and other information relevant to takeoffs and departure climbs in a specific make and model of airplane are contained in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-approved Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) and/or Pilot’s Operating Handbook (POH) for that airplane. If any information in this section differs from the airplane manufacturer’s recommendations contained in the AFM/POH, the manufacturer’s recommendations take precedence.
Terms and Definitions
Although the takeoff and climb constitute one continuous maneuver, they are divided into three separate steps for purposes of explanation:
- Takeoff roll
- Lift-off
- Initial climb
Refer to the figure 1 below for an illustration of these phases.
- Takeoff roll (ground roll): The portion of the takeoff procedure during which the airplane accelerates from a standstill to an airspeed that provides sufficient lift for it to become airborne.
- Lift-off: The point at which the wings begin lifting the airplane’s weight off the surface. In most airplanes, this occurs when the pilot rotates the nose upward to increase the angle of attack (AOA).
- Initial climb: The phase that begins when the airplane leaves the surface and a climb pitch attitude has been established. Normally, it is considered complete when the airplane has reached a safe maneuvering altitude or an en route climb has been established.
The following sections cover essential takeoff and departure climb procedures to help pilots develop safe and effective flying techniques.
Airplane Takeoffs and Departure Climbs Learning Path
1. Pre-Takeoff Planning and Safety Procedures
Learn the essential planning, preparation, and safety procedures pilots should complete before takeoff.
View Topic →2. Normal Takeoff and Initial Climb
Understand the procedures and techniques involved in performing a normal takeoff and establishing the initial climb.
View Topic →3. Crosswind Takeoff Techniques and Procedures
Explore the techniques pilots use to maintain directional control and safely take off in crosswind conditions.
View Topic →4. Ground Effect on Airplane Takeoff
Learn how ground effect influences airplane lift, drag, and performance during takeoff.
View Topic →5. Short-Field Takeoff and Maximum Performance Climb
Understand the procedures used to achieve maximum performance when operating from short runways or when obstacles must be cleared.
View Topic →6. Soft/Rough-Field Takeoff and Climb
Explore takeoff and climb techniques for operating from soft or rough surfaces while minimizing airplane stress.
View Topic →7. Rejected Takeoff, Engine Failure and Noise Abatement
Review rejected takeoff procedures, engine failure considerations, and techniques for reducing noise during departure.
View Topic →