Air Facts

MAY 10, 2024

Danger lurks in circling approaches Air Facts Journal the circling approach maneuver is designed as a last resort, non-precision approach. The very first question that should pop up into our head during a circling approach is “Why are we circling in the first place”? The n ext one is “What are our other options?”

Approach 70

Approach AGL Descent Runway 70

Fear of Landing

APRIL 19, 2024

As the helicopter continued towards the airport, the airspeed began to decrease. The indicated airspeed had fallen below 65 knots and was still decreasing. As the airspeed decayed, the right yaw increased. The helicopter was at treetop height with an indicated airspeed of zero knots when the right yaw ceased.

Torque 76

Torque Indicated Airspeed Tail Knot 76

Photographic Logbook

JULY 11, 2024

I had no interest in flying one hour north only to be shut out of our destination by weather below minimums for the available instrument approach procedure. ATC was great, the FBO (FlightLevel - Beverly) treated us well and charged reasonable fees, and radar services were managed by the perennially capable Boston Approach.

Approach 52

Approach Ceiling Weather Runway 52

Air Facts

SEPTEMBER 9, 2024

This broad scope approach is ultimately needed to help keep our friends, created in the image of God, alive. The current emphasis in general aviation (GA) safety is on visual angle of attack (AOA) indicators and impossible turns (return to the airport following engine failure). I can teach you in five minutes.”

General Aviation 73

General Aviation Pilot Approach Runway 73

Chess In the Air

JUNE 24, 2022

Approaching Rifle The last six minutes of Shmulik’s flight are plotted on the following map. Unsurprisingly, the actual glide ratio of his 49:1 glider was much better than the required 14:1 and he approached the airport relatively high. This would have shortened his approach, a seemingly prudent decision.

Pilot 52

Pilot AGL Wind Shear Runway 52