Landing an RV...sometimes on purpose

[ChiefPilot]

Originally Posted by rvbuilder2002

My example was talking about a typical small GA airport whose runway is usually at least 3000-3500' long. In that case, there is no reason that heavy braking should be required to stop in only half the runway length or less.

Absolutely. I rarely touch the brakes until I need to turn off at the end of the rollout. Captain McBrakes might like to do a Valdez STOL-like arrival every time, but approaching at Vref with a near-stall touchdown lets you slow to taxi speed on most runways without needing the brakes.

[ChiefPilot]

Originally Posted by RV7Guy

I think what happens many time is that we fly around on our planes at 170kts for a while then have to slow down to 65kts for final. It doesn't feel right So we keep it a little faster. Becomes even more critical when landing on a short field.

I'd argue that 65kts is sometimes too high. Computed Vref for me, bags, and gas in my -6A is 59kts.

[Pmerems]

Originally Posted by RV7Guy

As has been mentioned, the air speed is the key. Most, self included, approach too fast. The landing on a long runway is excellent advice.

I think what happens many time is that we fly around on our planes at 170kts for a while then have to slow down to 65kts for final. It doesn't feel right So we keep it a little faster. Becomes even more critical when landing on a short field.

You should have no problem with transition training and practice. The main goal, "Landings equal Take offs."

If I am on final (RV7A IO360 CS) with power off at 65 kts my sink rate picks up rather fast. I am typically over the numbers when below 65 kts. My touch down speed according to my Dynon data is about 52 kts IAS. Typically I have an 8 kt crosswind when landing and touchdown within 500 ft of the numbers and turn off using about 2K ft of paved runway. My DA is typically 4k+. I want to shorten my landing distance without heavy braking. Each flight I challenge myself to improve my landings even though by most standards they are very safe and smooth. I am not allowed to harm my RV!!