Part 2 takes you from the preflight inspection through taxi, takeoff, and landing tasks. I explain how I silently observe your walkaround, what I look for, and the common type-design questions that trip people up.
Key Takeaways
- I silently follow your preflight. I won't interrupt your walkaround — I don't want to break your flow. I'll take notes and ask questions after you're done.
- Type design conformity catches people off guard. The 172 aileron balance weights aren't in 91.205 or the TCDS or the equipment list. They're part of the type design — if they're missing, the airplane is unairworthy.
- You don't have to carry the checklist during the walkaround. You can reference it before or after. The ACS says "with reference to" a checklist, not "holding" a checklist.
- Soft-field and short-field technique matter. Know the specific POH numbers for your airplane's takeoff and landing performance — not just the generic technique.
VSL ACE Guide
The interactive ACS introduced in this series is now the VSL ACE Guide — every element hyperlinked to the FARs, handbooks, and advisory circulars. The same tool used throughout these videos.
Get the ACE GuideCommercial Pilot ACS Review — Full Series
- Part 1: The Oral Exam & Preflight Preparation
- Part 2: Preflight Through Takeoffs & Landings ← You are here
- Part 3: Performance Maneuvers, Stalls & Emergencies
- Part 4: Appendices, Admin & the Interactive ACS