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The 180-Degree Power-off Approach

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The power-off 180-degree accuracy approach and landing is a commercial/instructor practical test maneuver requiring pilots to cut power on the downwind leg and land as close as possible to a preselected runway target without re-applying power.
  • Successful execution involves making adjustments for wind using slips and flaps, but pilots must prioritize maintaining a safe aircraft attitude over hitting the target, and initial practice should always be with an instructor.
  • Practicing this maneuver in different aircraft types is essential due to varying glide ratios, and it serves as vital preparation for potential engine failures, significantly increasing the chances of a successful unplanned power-off landing.
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One maneuver that has been added to the practical test standards since I earned my commercial and instructor certificates at the beginning of the millennium is the power-off 180-degree accuracy approach and landing. While this maneuver is not a part of the private or sport pilot curricula, it is a maneuver that is worthwhile for you to practice regularly with an instructor by your side.

The power-off 180-degree accuracy approach and landing is exactly what the name implies. You select a point on the runway, most likely the 1,000-foot markers, cut the power on the downwind leg abeam the target point (at or below 1,000 feet agl per the PTS) and leave the power off for the duration of the approach with the intent to land as close to the preselected point as possible.

Pia Bergqvist

Pia Bergqvist joined FLYING in December 2010. A passionate aviator, Pia started flying in 1999 and quickly obtained her single- and multi-engine commercial, instrument and instructor ratings. After a decade of working in general aviation, Pia has accumulated almost 3,000 hours of flight time in nearly 40 different types of aircraft.

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