Soft field operations require a different mindset than a paved runway. In Day 9 of the 31-Day Safer Pilot Challenge 2026, MzeroA’s Jamie takes you to a real grass strip to demonstrate proper soft field takeoff and landing techniques. From keeping weight off the nose wheel to managing carb heat and ground friction, day 9 shows how to safely operate from grass and soft surfaces while protecting the aircraft and maintaining control.
Soft Field Takeoff Technique: Get Light and Get Airborne
The foundation of a proper soft field takeoff is protecting the nose wheel. Full aft elevator keeps weight off the nose gear while taxing and during the takeoff roll. On grass, acceleration is reduced due to increased rolling resistance, so the goal is to get airborne as soon as possible and transition into ground effect. Riding ground effect allows the aircraft to accelerate efficiently until reaching Vx to clear obstacles, followed by a smooth transition to Vy once clear.
Carb Heat and Checklist Discipline on Soft Fields
Soft field operations require extra attention to carburetor heat, especially in carbureted aircraft. Using carb heat on the ground can allow unfiltered air, dust, and debris to enter the engine. Carb heat should be used during descent when appropriate, but it must be returned to cold before landing. Adding reminders to checklists helps ensure this critical step isn’t missed during high-workload phases of flight.
Soft Field Landing Procedure: Keep the Weight off the Nose
A proper soft field landing procedure isn’t about touching down firmly, it’s about staying light. Carrying a small amount of power into the flare helps maintain a nose-up attitude and keeps weight off the nose wheel. The goal is to touch down as softly as possible, letting the main wheels absorb the landing while protecting the nose gear from uneven or rough surfaces commonly found on grass strips.
Ground Friction, Braking, and Energy Management
Grass runways provide increased ground friction, which works in the pilot’s favor on landing but against them on takeoff. On landing, braking effectiveness is often improved through rolling resistance alone, reducing the need for aggressive braking. On takeoff, however, that same friction slows acceleration, reinforcing the importance of proper technique, early liftoff, and efficient use of ground effect. Understanding this balance is key to safe soft field operations.
Safer Pilot Challenge 2026
The Safer Pilot Challenge is our yearly vow to help you become a smarter, safer pilot, and it runs all month long every January, wrapping up with our big livestream finale on January 31! We’re giving away prizes throughout the month, so be sure to watch each YouTube video and leave the specific comment to enter for a chance to win. Are you committing to 31 for 31 days of the Safer Pilot Challenge? If you love our free content, just imagine what our full courses can do for you. We’d love to welcome you into our ground schools! Start today with a free 2-week trial and see if MzeroA is the right fit for your aviation journey!