Pilot Institute
OCTOBER 2, 2024
It’s not magic—it’s ground effect. When you’re flying near the ground, within one wingspan, the aerodynamic forces start to change. Ground effect is a phenomenon that every pilot must master. Key Takeaways Ground effect increases an aircraft’s lift and decreases drag. You feel in control.
Pilot Institute
MARCH 26, 2024
Going into a checkride (or a grass strip) without solid soft field skills is asking for trouble. Hold this extra power as you enter ground effect. Low-wing aircraft perform better in ground effect because of the wing’s proximity to the ground. Soft field landings are widely misunderstood.
Pilot Institute
MARCH 29, 2024
The aircraft’s proximity to the ground leaves you with little to no room to recover from a loss of control. Additionally, both private and commercial pilot checkrides require the demonstration of slow flight. Not Clearing the Area You’ll fail a checkride before even starting your slow flight task if you forget to clear the area.
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