GENERAL
This chapter discusses takeoffs and departure climbs in
tricycle landing gear (nosewheel-type) airplanes under
normal conditions, and under conditions which require
maximum performance. A thorough knowledge of
takeoff principles, both in theory and practice, will
often prove of extreme value throughout a pilot's
career. It will often prevent an attempted takeoff that
would result in an accident, or during an emergency,
make possible a takeoff under critical conditions when
a pilot with a less well rounded knowledge and technique
would fail.

The takeoff, though relatively simple, often presents
the most hazards of any part of a flight. The importance
of thorough knowledge and faultless technique and
judgment cannot be overemphasized.

It must be remembered that the manufacturer's recommended
procedures, including airplane configuration and
airspeeds, and other information relevant to takeoffs and
departure climbs in a specific make and model airplane are
contained in the FAA-approved Airplane Flight Manual
and/or Pilot's Operating Handbook (AFM/POH) for that
airplane. If any of the information in this chapter differs
from the airplane manufacturer's recommendations as
contained in the AFM/POH, the airplane manufacturer's
recommendations take precedence.

TERMS AND DEFINITIONS
Although the takeoff and climb is one continuous
maneuver, it will be divided into three separate steps
for purposes of explanation: (1) the takeoff roll, (2) the
lift-off, and (3) the initial climb after becoming airborne.
[Figure 5-1]

• Takeoff Roll (ground roll)—the portion of the
takeoff procedure during which the airplane is
accelerated from a standstill to an airspeed that
provides sufficient lift for it to become airborne.
• Lift-off (rotation)—the act of becoming airborne
as a result of the wings lifting the airplane
off the ground or the pilot rotating the nose up,
increasing the angle of attack to start a climb.
• Initial Climb—begins when the airplane leaves
the ground and a pitch attitude has been established
to climb away from the takeoff area.

Normally, it is considered complete when the
airplane has reached a safe maneuvering altitude,
or an en route climb has been established.