Soft-field takeoff technique

A soft-field takeoff is needed on a soft or rough surface. Check the Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM) for flap setting.

Before the roll:

• Run all checklists first, on any solid surface.
• Taxi straight into takeoff without stopping: stopping risks getting stuck and needs high power to restart.
• Inspect taxiway and takeoff surface for extra-soft spots. Cross them on momentum, extra power if needed.

Roll:

• Longer roll to flying speed.
• Hold a nose-high attitude.
• Tricycle gear: hold nose wheel off with elevator. Drag from higher angle of attack is less than drag of a nose wheel digging in.
• Flaps: small extension can lower liftoff speed; large extension just adds drag.

Liftoff:

• Liftoff is slower than normal takeoff and below safe climb speed. Ground effect can put it close to a stall.
• Stay level, wheels just clear, until climb speed.
• Do not climb early or settle back onto the surface.

Trap: stopping on the soft surface to run checks or line up, risking getting stuck.

Practice