I just completed my CFI recertification training (American Flyers) for the umpteenth time and had some material from the class that was still handy to throw out for discussion. The FAA's textbook answer for a stabilized approach for piston aircraft is described in: Airplane Flying Handbook Chapter 9: Approaches and Landings
An excerpt from this link:
Pilots may consider the following elements when attempting to set up and fly a stabilized approach to landing. The pilot should focus
on the elements that lead to a stabilized approach rather than the order of the elements or the insistence on meeting all of the approach
criteria. For a typical
piston aircraft, an approach is stabilized when the following criteria are met:
- Glide path. Typically a constant 3 degrees to the touchdown zone on the runway (obstructions permitting).
- Heading. The aircraft tracks the centerline to the runway with only minor heading/pitch changes necessary to correct for wind
or turbulence to maintain alignment. Bank angle normally limited to 15 degrees once established on final.
- Airspeed. The aircraft speed is within +10 /-5 KIAS of the recommended landing speed specified in the AFM, 1.3VSO, or on approved placards/markings. If the pilot applies a gust factor, indicated airspeed should not decay below the recommended landing speed.
- Configuration. The aircraft is in the correct landing configuration with flaps as required; landing gear extended, and is in trim.
- Descent rate. A descent rate (generally 500-1000 fpm for light general aviation aircraft) makes for a safe approach. Minimal adjustments to the descent rate as the airplane approaches the runway provide an additional indication of a stabilized and safe approach. If using a descent rate in excess of 500 fpm due to approach considerations, the pilot should reduce the descent rate prior to 300 ft AGL.
- Power setting. The pilot should use a power setting appropriate for the aircraft configuration and not below the minimum power for approach as defined by the AFM.
- Briefings and checklists. Completing all briefings and checklists prior to initiating the approach (except the landing checklist), ensures the pilot can focus on the elements listed above.