Pilot Institute

MARCH 28, 2025

As at higher altitudes, the vortex movement near the ground is affected by crosswinds. This distance is measured when the preceding aircraft is over the runway threshold. Crosswinds can push the downwind vortex into your approach path. That makes it harder for the aircraft to fit into hangars and airport gates.

Turbulence 97

Turbulence Lift Drag Runway 97

Plane and Pilot

SEPTEMBER 15, 2024

Once there, he put us in a slight right turn toward our first fuel stop 60 miles ahead, continuously fighting the stick as the gusting left crosswind did its best to push us off course. Wilkins guided the craft along the invisible roller coaster, working to keep the wings level while maintaining a crab as the Cub climbed the first 500 feet.

Runway 98

Runway Crosswind Rudder Pilot 98

Photographic Logbook

FEBRUARY 2, 2025

At the airport, there was ice and snow to remove from in front of the hangar door, fuel to add to the Warrior now resting on three fully inflated tires (the left main had a new tube), and then there was the moment when I slipped on ice while pulling the airplane from the hangar and landed flat on my back. We had a deal.

Runway 89

Runway Knot Weather Turbulence 89

Photographic Logbook

JANUARY 25, 2025

Thaws, rain, snow, and strong crosswinds can temporarily close the airport. Rolling out on final approach, I was surprised to see another airplane stopped right at the runway threshold. Usually, Alton Bay volunteers hold departure traffic significantly farther back from the threshold when other aircraft are about to land.

Runway 68

Runway Airplanes Threshold Approach 68