Short-field landing is a demanding procedure forpilots inaircraft, utilized when the length of therunway orlanding area is relatively short, or where obstacles in close vicinity to thelanding approach limit the available landing area.[1] In the latter case, the runway likely have adisplaced threshold.
The required procedure differs based on the aircraft type, so thePilots Operating Handbook (POH) should be consulted for the specific aircraft type. In general, the technique is to utilize maximumflaps for this type of landing. The approach is made with engine power commensurate with maintaining the approachairspeed listed in the POH. In cases where a POH is unavailable, a speed not more than 1.3VSO should be used.[1] The use of full flaps will enable steeper approaches to the aiming point, which is particularly useful in cases where the approach must be made over obstacles. Speed must be maintained precisely in order to execute a stabilized approach. After touch-down, the pilot applies maximum wheel braking andup-elevator to counter the pitch-over moment caused by braking and reduce the chances of apropeller strike. Flaps are sometimes retracted to allow better braking performance by reducing lift on the wing.Spoilers may also be used, where equipped.