Lesson 3b - Before-Landing Checklist

Lesson Objective

Regulatory Requirement

• §61.87(i)(16)
• Private Pilot Practical Test Standard IV-(Q) (8)

Content

• The student will learn the necessity and procedure for the memorized checklist executed before entering the pattern.

Completion Standards

The student must be able to perform:

• The FUSTALL checklist before entering the pattern
• All items on the checklist with smooth transition between the steps and authority.

The student must be able to explain:

• The purpose of the FUSTALL checklist
• The reasons why Flaps and Undercarriage are included, even though the aircraft lacks flaps and a retractable landing gear

Prerequisite Study

• FUSTALL:
  • Flaps -- Set to the landing setting.
  • Undercarriage -- down and locked (down and welded)
  • Speed -- Set to the landing speed.
  • Trim -- Set to maintain the landing speed.
  • Air brakes -- Verify they work before you need them. Open and symmetrical deployment.
  • Lookout -- Look to the traffic pattern to ensure proper separation
  • Landing -- Look to the landing runway to ensure it is clear
  Note that some instructors include an extra "A" for altitude after "Trim".
• Glider Flying Handbook (2013), Chapter 7, page 7-22