How to Make a Soft Field Landing

Fly a low approach over the runway to check for debris, holes and overall condition of the runway. It's better to find out what's on the runway before you land so there are no surprises.

Select full flaps whenever possible. If you think damage could occur to the flaps due to debris or mud, consider using partial flaps or retracting them at touchdown.

Trim the airplane for the manufacturer's suggested approach speed. The more stable the airplane on the approach, the more controlled your landing.

Flare the aircraft about one wingspan length above the ground and let it settle into ground effect. Fly in ground effect as long as possible to touch down as gently and slowly as possible.

Touch down on the main landing gear just prior to reaching the stalling speed of the airplane. Apply back pressure to keep the nose gear from touching down. Don't let the drag from the ground pull the nose down.

Lower the nose slowly to the ground before the elevator loses control effectiveness. Continue to hold full aft elevator while taxiing to keep as much weight as possible off the nose gear.

Taxi the airplane off the runway without allowing it to come to a complete stop. Avoid stopping until on a paved surface if possible.