A pilot and two passengers landed on a 2,100 foot east-west gravel strip with an elevation of 1,800 feet. The temperature is warmer than expected and after computing the density altitude it is determined the takeoff distance over a 50 foot obstacle is 1,980 feet. The airplane is 75 pounds under gross weight. What would be the best choice?
Taking off into the headwind will give the extra climb-out time needed.
Try a takeoff without the passengers to make sure the climb is adequate.
Wait until the temperature decreases, and recalculate the takeoff performance.✓ Correct Answer
Explanation
The computed 1,980 feet to clear a 50-foot obstacle leaves only 120 feet of the 2,100-foot strip, with no margin for a gravel surface, pilot technique or an aging engine. Density altitude is the problem, and it improves as the temperature drops (PHAK Ch. 11). Sound ADM (PHAK Ch. 2; Risk Management Handbook) is to wait for cooler air and recompute performance. Counting on a headwind that may not be there, or 'testing' a marginal takeoff even with a lighter load, accepts an unmitigated risk instead of removing it.
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