I know. So did I.
Question, Sheppy.
Why does Mr Cessna specify a static RPM limit (both max and min) for a fixed pitch propellor if you are not supposed to check the max throttle rpm at a static position?
Too low, not enough torque being produced from the engine to drive the propellor.
Too high, not enough torque being produced from the propellor, therefore not enough thrust being produced either. (Think of the lift/drag relationship and apply that to the prop blade. It just gets renamed thrust/torque.)
Basic check that should be conducted as a part of every takeoff with a fixed pitch prop.
Eg.
RPM in range (release brakes)
Engine parameters in range
Airspeed increasing
But again, I stress it shouldn't take more than one or two seconds to verify.
ENR 1.1
15.2 Non-Standard Circuit Operations
Pilots must advise ATC of non-standard circuit operations, eg, glide and flapless circuits, normally with the DOWNWIND report. This advice will also alert other circuit traffic. ATC must also be advised of single engined aircraft conducting simulated engine failures at the earliest opportunity.
15.2.1 Where appropriate, an ATC sequencing instruction will indicate that there are no traffic restrictions precluding the manoeuvre. Subject to traffic, ATC may deny, or apply parameters to such operations for traffic management purposes.
As for glide approaches (ie.
non standard circuits), they are advised and approved as you will normally be turning a much closer base than during a normal approach. At AF on Rwy 10L for example, they may specify to remain clear of helicopter area Alpha as they expect you to be turning almost immediately passing the downwind end of the runway.
Agreed we do use them to tune the student's round out, but why would you not practise a glide approach at a known location so that you become used to what the aircraft is capable of and can then apply the picture and performance to an unknown location (ie the training area)?
The whole idea of a PFL is to fly something as close to a circuit pattern as possible because you are (hopefully) aware of the aircraft's performance in that scenario.