What action should be taken as airspeed approaches 120 KIAS during a touch and go?

As airspeed approaches 120 KIAS during a touch and go, it is essential to manage the power settings appropriately to ensure a safe and controlled flight. Reducing power to 60% is a standard procedure in this situation, as it allows for a smooth transition from the touchdown phase to the climb-out phase while maintaining a safe airspeed.

Touch and go maneuvers require specific attention to power management, particularly during critical moments such as when transitioning from landing to liftoff. By reducing power in this scenario, the aircraft can avoid excess speed, which can lead to difficulties in managing the climb. Controlled power settings facilitate a stable ascent without risking over-speeding, which can compromise safety during this phase of flight.

Maintaining the current power setting or increasing power to 100% would not adequately address the changes in speed and energy state of the aircraft as it prepares to climb. Additionally, descending immediately would not be appropriate since this is a phase of flight that typically requires a climb back to a safe altitude.

Hence, reducing power to 60% aligns with best practices for safe flying and effective energy management during critical phases of flight like a touch and go.