Final Words On Zero-Zero

Excellent article on zero/zero takeoffs ("Cant See Nuthin," October 2009). Another unmentioned consideration is visibility on the takeoff roll. On the early morning (oh-dark-thirty) ride to the airport, I could make out glimpses of the moon through a occasional break in the fog. I did a thorough preflight and powered up to launch. At approximately 35 knots, I lost sight of the runway environment entirely. I decided continuing the takeoff was a better choice than trying to abort and rotated the Skyhawk on the gauges at the proper speed. Completely losing sight of the runway before launch is a factor that should be added to previously mentioned considerations in the decision to go or not.

Key Takeaways:

• Pilots conducting zero-visibility takeoffs must prepare for losing all visual cues during the takeoff roll and integrate instruments like the turn coordinator into their primary scan for attitude and heading.
• The article clarifies the distinction between "upwind" and "departure" legs in traffic patterns, emphasizing its importance for noise abatement procedures and adherence to FAA guidance.
• For night flying, Maximum Elevation Figures (MEFs) on sectional charts are recommended as a simple and inexpensive way to verify terrain clearance for planned en route altitudes.
• Proper flap management during a go-around should strictly follow the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH), noting that approach flaps primarily reduce stall speed and gear retraction offers greater drag reduction.

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