Plane and Pilot

NOVEMBER 27, 2024

Often, turbulence is the harbinger of mountain waves, not the ideal ceiling—and visibility unlimited—day. We experienced moderate turbulence even at our gate. If the velocity of water increases over the rock, so does the turbulence. Think of the Great Basin High as a set of bellows pointed at southeastern Wyoming.

Turbulence 89

Turbulence Weather Knot Descent 89

Air Facts

APRIL 29, 2024

At the current groundspeed, I believed it shouldn’t be of much concern unless the cell began producing lightning. KCPC was reporting IFR conditions with a 700’ ceiling and one mile visibility. Unicom also confirmed the weather was still showing a 700’ ceiling with one mile of visibility.

Descent 98

Descent Approach Weather AGL 98

Air Facts

AUGUST 16, 2024

With a screaming tailwind, I was seeing a groundspeed of 185 kts at 6,500 feet. Allowing the altitude to sort itself out was the most practical approach with dealing with the wave and associated turbulence. The next day was VFR with some lower cloud ceilings along the way. I was airborne in roughly one hour. hours flight time.

Weather 98

Weather Knot Ceiling Turbulence 98