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Operations

Ditching

Definition

A controlled emergency landing on water. Proper technique involves landing parallel to swells or into the wind, maintaining level attitude, and evacuating to life rafts as soon as the aircraft stops.

Why Ditching Matters for Pilots

Operational knowledge like Ditching is tested across multiple FAA and EASA exam subjects. Pilots who understand Ditching can operate more safely and efficiently, whether flying light aircraft or commercial airliners. This concept comes up in both written tests and practical checkrides.

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Exam Tip

This concept is commonly tested in operations-related questions on FAA and EASA exams. Make sure you can explain Ditching in your own words for the oral exam. Practice applying this concept to real-world scenarios, not just memorizing the definition.

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