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Complete the Checklist
Before starting the approach, complete as much of the landing checklist as you can. If you
have airspeed, altitude, and/or heading "bugs" installed, set them to the
appropriate values to give yourself a visual reminder of speeds, altitudes, and headings.
As you review and set these values, think about how the wind will affect your aircraft, and
how you must maneuver to compensate for it. Note: If there is a large aircraft
ahead, plan on staying above the glideslope (GS) to avoid wake turbulence.
Lower the Landing Gear
If you are flying an airplane with retractable gear, it is a good idea to lower the
gear when you are 1/2 dot above the GS or at a GS intercept on a
precision approach.
On a non-precision approach, lower the gear at the final approach fix (FAF).
If, however, you are going to circle to land in a multi-engine airplane with one engine
inoperative, do not extend the landing gear until you are abeam the point of intended
landing on the runway in use. This maneuver is very dangerous, and should be attempted
only when it is not possible to divert to another airport with better weather or a
runway alignment that permits a straight-in approach.
Make Callouts
Once established on the approach, use the profile view for best reference information.
Verbal callouts help you maintain situational awareness. If you have another pilot on
board, ask him or her to make verbal callouts for 1,000, 500, and 100 feet above
minimums for the approach. If you are operating as a single pilot, make the verbal
callouts yourself.
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