By the end of this session, you should be able to:
- Use rudder steering and braking to control the aircraft on the ground.
- Recognize the basic sequence from engine/start setup through takeoff.
- Establish a stable climb after liftoff.
Instructor-Led Flight Series • F.2
Taxi, Takeoff & Climb
Focus question: How does a pilot transition from ground operations to a stable climb?
Lesson Overview
Learning Targets
Instructor Setup
- Position the aircraft at a parking or ramp location near the selected runway.
- Use visual meteorological conditions and light wind for the first attempt.
- Set the simulator so the student can complete taxi, runway alignment, takeoff, and climb within the session.
30-Minute Plan
Session Timeline
0–5 min
Brief the sequence
Review engine/start setup, taxi, braking, runway alignment, flap setting, takeoff roll, rotation, and initial climb.
5–10 min
Instructor demonstration
Demonstrate smooth taxi control, centerline tracking, takeoff acceleration, rotation, and climb attitude.
10–23 min
Student flight
Student taxis to the runway, lines up, completes the takeoff roll, rotates, and establishes a climb.
23–27 min
Second attempt or refinement
Repeat the takeoff or restart from runway position to improve directional control and climb stability.
27–30 min
Debrief
Discuss centerline control, rotation timing, airspeed awareness, and climb corrections.
Student Mission
Flight Tasks
- Taxi at a controlled speed using rudder steering and brakes.
- Stop and align with the runway before beginning the takeoff roll.
- Maintain directional control during acceleration.
- Rotate smoothly and avoid excessive pitch input.
- Establish a stable climb while monitoring airspeed and heading.
Completion Check
Ready to Move On?
- Maintains reasonable taxi control and avoids abrupt braking.
- Tracks the runway centerline during takeoff.
- Uses smooth rotation and climb inputs.
- Monitors airspeed and heading during the climb.
Instructor decision: Repeat, practice during Free Flight, or continue to the next instructor-led lesson.
Guide basis: The RealSimGear function checklist specifically verifies engine start, taxi and brake operation, run-up/powerplant checks, acceleration, nose-wheel/rudder steering, flap operation, and takeoff behavior.