AA.III.D — Glassy Water Approach and Landing (ASES, AMES)

Objective: To determine that the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with a glassy water approach and landing.

Knowledge

The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

• AA.III.D.K1A stabilized approach, to include energy management concepts.
• AA.III.D.K2Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on approach and landing performance.
• AA.III.D.K3Wind correction techniques on approach and landing.
• AA.III.D.K4When and why glassy water techniques are used.
• AA.III.D.K5How a glassy water approach and landing is executed.

Risk Management

The applicant demonstrates the ability to identify, assess and mitigate risks, encompassing:

• AA.III.D.R1Selection of the approach path and touchdown area based on pilot capability, aircraft limitations, available distance, surface conditions, and wind.
• AA.III.D.R2Go-around/rejected landing.
• AA.III.D.R3Collision hazards, to include aircraft, terrain, obstacles, wires, vehicles, vessels, persons, and wildlife.
• AA.III.D.R4Low altitude maneuvering including stall, spin, or CFIT.
• AA.III.D.R5Distractions, loss of situational awareness, or improper task management.
• AA.III.D.R6Failure to confirm gear position in an amphibious aircraft.

Skills

The applicant demonstrates the ability to:

• AA.III.D.S1Coordinate with crew, if applicable, and complete the appropriate checklist(s).
• AA.III.D.S2Make radio calls as appropriate.
• AA.III.D.S3Ensure that the landing gear and water rudders are retracted, if applicable.
• AA.III.D.S4Consider the landing surface, visual attitude references, water depth, and collision hazards and select the proper approach and landing path.
• AA.III.D.S5Establish the recommended approach and landing configuration and airspeed, and adjust pitch attitude and power as required to maintain a stabilized approach.
• AA.III.D.S6Maintain a stabilized approach and recommended airspeed, ±5 knots.
• AA.III.D.S7Make smooth, timely, and correct power and control adjustments to maintain proper attitude and rate of descent to touchdown.
• AA.III.D.S8Maintain directional control throughout the approach and landing.
• AA.III.D.S9Contact the water in a proper pitch attitude and slow to idle taxi speed.