Go-Around / Rejected Landing
Private Pilot ACS · Area IV · Task N · POH/AFM, FAA-H-8083-3
Everything you need to know about Go-Around / Rejected Landing for your private pilot checkride. Aligned to FAA-S-ACS-6C Task IV-N, covering go-around / rejected landing.
When to Initiate §
Go around any time the approach or landing is not proceeding safely. No-hesitation triggers:
• Approach not stabilized by 500 ft AGL
• Runway not clear when crossing the threshold
• Significant wind shear encountered on approach
• ATC instruction to go around
• Landing long and stopping distance becomes uncertain
• Any unsafe condition on or near the runway
A go-around is never a failure — it is the correct decision. Always be mentally prepared for a go-around on every approach.
• Approach not stabilized by 500 ft AGL
• Runway not clear when crossing the threshold
• Significant wind shear encountered on approach
• ATC instruction to go around
• Landing long and stopping distance becomes uncertain
• Any unsafe condition on or near the runway
A go-around is never a failure — it is the correct decision. Always be mentally prepared for a go-around on every approach.
AFH Ch.8; ACS PA.IV.N
Go-Around Sequence §
1. Full power — simultaneously advance throttle and establish climb attitude (do not wait)
2. Carb heat OFF — carb heat reduces power; turn it off as power is applied
3. Flaps — retract incrementally per POH. Never retract all flaps at once from full extension — sudden loss of lift at low altitude.
4. Establish Vy climb speed
5. Announce "going around" on radio
6. Retract remaining flaps after positive rate and clear of obstacles
Watch for: balloon on power application (correct with forward pressure), left-turning tendency at full power (right rudder).
2. Carb heat OFF — carb heat reduces power; turn it off as power is applied
3. Flaps — retract incrementally per POH. Never retract all flaps at once from full extension — sudden loss of lift at low altitude.
4. Establish Vy climb speed
5. Announce "going around" on radio
6. Retract remaining flaps after positive rate and clear of obstacles
Watch for: balloon on power application (correct with forward pressure), left-turning tendency at full power (right rudder).
AFH Ch.8; ACS PA.IV.N