At MzeroA, we’re revisiting some of our most crucial safety tips and pilot training lessons. In this video, we revisit one of Jason’s old videos where he shares three often-overlooked landing insights, but with the fresh take of MzeroA’s Martin. So what things is your Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) not telling you about landings, but maybe should be? Keep in mind, it’s not because they’re bad instructors, but because every CFI teaches differently, and sometimes critical details get lost in translation.
1. Airspeed is King
Landings are mandatory, but going around is always an option. A stable approach starts with consistent airspeeds:
- Downwind: 90 knots
- Base: 80 knots
- Final: 70 knots, continuing to slow across the fence
Remember: pitch is for airspeed, power is for altitude. Airspeed is king, but altitude is a close second, you can always trade altitude for airspeed, but not the other way around.
2. Eye Placement Matters
Have you ever felt like the ground “snuck up” on you? That usually means you were looking too close in front of the airplane. Instead, take your eyes 300-500 feet down the runway, or even toward the treeline.
- Use central vision to track the centerline
- Use peripheral vision to judge height above the runway
This wider perspective helps smooth out your round out and keeps you from being surprised at touchdown.
3. Transition, Don’t Flare
Forget the word “flare”. Big jets flare, but smaller GA aircraft like a Cessna 172 or Cherokee 140 don’t the same way, they transition.
- Transition from a nose-down approach into ground effect
- Hold the airplane off in a slow-flight attitude
- Let airspeed bleed off and touch down on the mains, followed by the nose wheel
Thinking “flare” often leads pilots to yank back excessively, pitching up too high and losing sight of the runway. Think “transition” instead.
Get the MzeroA Checkride Book Series
Ready to ace your checkride? Take preparation to the next level with the MzeroA Checkride Book Series. Packed with in-depth knowledge, real-world scenarios, and insight, these books are designed to help you walk into your checkride with confidence. Whether you’re a seasoned pilot looking to brush up on your knowledge, check out the Private, Instrument, and Commercial books today! Copies are available in paperback, audio, and e-book formats. Visit www.mzeroa.com/store for more information.