The Importance of Practicing on Real Grass
Day 3 of the 31-Day Safer Pilot Challenge brings focus to a vital real-world skill: soft field landings. While many pilots simulate soft field conditions on pavement, landing on actual turf introduces new variables like uneven terrain, braking limitations, and wildlife distractions. Practicing on real grass, under the supervision of an instructor, builds the muscle memory and confidence needed for handling emergency landings in off-airport or unfamiliar environments.
A real soft field landing is performed at Naples on the Northeast Turf runway during this video.
Soft Field Approach and Landing Technique
This begins with a typical pattern setup and situational awareness briefing, including a check of winds, temperature, and field conditions reports. The approach to the 1,850-foot turf strip includes managing carb heat (turned off before landing to avoid ingesting unfiltered air), flap configuration, and careful airspeed management – aiming for approximately 70 knots on short final.
A soft field landing requires a precise flare, with the primary focus on protecting the nosewheel and minimizing brake use. The soft, bumpy nature of the turf runway reinforces the need for smooth control inputs and situational awareness all the way through rollout.
Lessons Learned and Why It Matters
The value of experiencing soft field landings is important. Even experienced pilots benefit from the unpredictable nature of grass surfaces – where braking, directional control, and stopping distance can vary significantly. Practicing in these conditions prepares pilots for real-world diversions, engine failures, or landings in unpaved fields.
Don’t let your first real soft field landing be in an emergency. Seek opportunities to land on turf safely and legally with an instructor. The skills gained through actual soft field experience can enhance pilot confidence and decision-making under pressure.
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