Pilot's Life Blog

JANUARY 5, 2025

The pre-landing check is the first step in ensuring the aircraft is ready for a stable descent. Review current weather conditions, including wind speed, direction, and visibility, as these can significantly impact the approach. Additionally, configure the aircraft for a stable descent.

Descent 52

Descent Final Approach Approach Runway 52

Photographic Logbook

APRIL 19, 2024

Even though I was likely to be cleared through the outer ring by ATC (air traffic control) while on an instrument flight plan, I filed a route from Sodus to the Williamsport VOR (FQM) that circumvented the TFR entirely. I pulled the power back and set a notch of flaps to establish a 90 knot, 500 foot/minute descent.

Approach 74

Approach Wind Shear Runway VOR 74

Northstar VFR

MARCH 23, 2025

There are several criteria that must be met for a pilot to descend below Decision Altitude/Decision Height (DA/DH) or Minimum Descent Altitude (MDA) on an instrument approach. Traffic/Animals/Objects on the Runway We all have seen news reports of major carriers having to go-around because another aircraft entered the runway.

Pilot 52

Pilot Wind Shear Instrument Meteorological Conditions Runway 52

One Mile at a Time

FEBRUARY 27, 2025

During our descent to CPH, there was a sudden and noticeable increase in altitude, and the cabin crew announced that our landing had been aborted. It could be that theres sudden wind shear on final approach, or that that visibility is below minimums, or that the aircraft is too high or too fast, etc.

Airplanes 82

Airplanes Wind Shear Weather Approach 82

Pilot Institute

FEBRUARY 15, 2025

A strong downward rush of air sent it plunging uncontrollably. The pilots fought to recover, but the wind shear was too strong. Key Takeaways Microbursts can cause severe wind shear and downdrafts. It is the most severe type of wind shear. So, what makes microbursts so dangerous?

Wind Shear 66

Wind Shear Weather Descent Approach 66