On Thu, 18 Nov 2004 02:34:16 GMT, "Roy Page"
wrote:

One guy says my airfield with a 2,800ft runway is a "short field" and I
should use 25deg flaps as per the POH for takeoff at gross weight.
In the summer, heavily loaded I'd say he's right. In the summer with
obstacles at the end of the runway I'd also say he's right.

The other says 2,800ft is not a short field and I should use 10 deg flap at
gross weight and that 25 deg increases drag too much.
In the winter, or fall with a headwind I'd say he's right. At a field
with no obstacles and fields beyond the end of the runway, I'd also
say he's right.



There is no cut and dry answer to this. You need to learn your
airplane. Look at the POH and make a determination of what you feel
is appropriate for your skill level. It's pretty obvious these two
are fighting for fighting sake since they are arguing over something
that is situationally dependant, and one of the "finer" points of
flying. If you're completely in doubt use the 25 the POH says and you
should get close to what the charts depict for short field performance
assuming a descent engine and airframe.

HTH & Good luck with those two.

z