Figure 5-1 The Takeoff Roll, Rotation, and Initial Climb

T-6A CONTACT

CHAPTER FIVE

gear. Secondly, a shorter distance is required to develop the minimum lift necessary for takeoff

and climb. Aircraft depend on airspeed to fly. A headwind provides some airspeed before the

aircraft even begins its takeoff ground roll as the wind flows over the wings.

Although the takeoff and climb process is one continuous maneuver, it is divided into three

separate steps for purposes of explanation: takeoff roll, rotation, and initial climb (Figure 5-1).

Figure 5-1 The Takeoff Roll, Rotation, and Initial Climb

The takeoff roll is the portion of the takeoff procedure during which the aircraft is accelerated

from standstill to an airspeed providing sufficient lift for it to become airborne.

The rotation is the act of raising the nose of the aircraft to a set pitch attitude, increasing AOA

and allowing the aircraft to become airborne in controlled flight.

The initial climb is the period just after the aircraft has left the runway and is normally

considered complete when the aircraft has reached a safe maneuvering altitude.

An abrupt application of power will cause the aircraft to yaw sharply left because of the torque

effects of the propeller. Steady the yawing tendency with right rudder as the engine spools up

and the aircraft begins rolling down the runway. Remember, the TAD will not begin making

rudder trim adjustments until 80 KIAS and weight off wheels. As speed increases, more and

more pressure will be felt on the flight controls, particularly the elevator and rudder. Since the

tail surfaces receive the full effect of the propeller slipstream, they become effective first.

Apply back elevator pressure at 85 KIAS to gradually raise the nose wheel off the runway and to

establish the takeoff attitude (8 nose high). This is referred to as "rotating." Allow the aircraft

to fly itself off the ground. Do not force the aircraft into the air with excessive back stick

pressure as this will only result in an excessively high pitch attitude, possible stall, and lengthens

FLIGHT PROCEDURES

5-3