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Quick Crosswind Calculation for Pilots

Pilot Institute

In this article well demonstrate how to perform a quick crosswind calculation and why it is important to know. Key Takeaways Crosswinds are nearly always present Knowing how to calculate them is essential for safe flying. Use the clock face method A simple way to estimate crosswind components quickly. What Is a Crosswind?

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Teaching International Student Pilots

Air Facts

At the departure end of the runway, he turned crosswind and continued to the outside downwind, approximately two miles west of the inside downwind. The IP in the front cockpit would do all ground-handling operations and make the takeoff. A T-38 with a student in the rear cockpit. from an unsafe approach.

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The Starlink era is here—will we regret it?

Air Facts

This promises to be a major advancement in cockpit technology, with benefits for pilots and passengers alike. Its easy to imagine reading the NTSB report about an influencer on YouTube or Instagram who crashed while livestreaming on final approach (Can I land in a 40-knot crosswind? Ride along and find out!). Kids these days, right?

Weather 98
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Top 10 Mistakes Student Pilots Make (And How to Avoid Them)

Inflight Pilot Training

Not Studying Enough Outside of Flight Lessons The Mistake: Many student pilots believe that learning to fly is all about time in the cockpit, neglecting the equally important ground school and self-study. This leads to unstable approaches, excessive pitch changes, and increased workload in the cockpit.

Pilot 52
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The Complete Home Flight Simulator Setup Guide (2025)

Pilot Institute

Or perhaps you’re designing a fully-fledged cockpit that rivals real-world flight training rigs. Anyone who’s tried to enter a sideslip during a crosswind landing with a twist grip knows how hard it is. The Crosswinds use Hall sensors for both rudder and brakes, making them very precise. It all depends on your goals.

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Best-Laid Plans

Plane and Pilot

I turned crosswind and attempted to shallow the climb. This time, I pulled out some power as I transitioned to the crosswind leg. I closed my eyes and drank in a gulp of the cool air coming through the cockpit. I resisted pulling power back, knowing I needed to get to a safer altitude. I felt I was strapped into a runaway jet.

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How to Prepare for Your First Check Ride

Plane and Pilot

It is the first time you will step into the cockpit and demonstrate to your examiner, the FAA, and yourself that youre ready to safely and competently operate as a private pilot. The last thing you want is to be fighting a nasty crosswind while demonstrating a challenging performance landing to your examiner, for instance.