Remove Crosswind Remove Runway Remove Turbulence
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Wingtip Vortices and Wake Turbulence

Pilot Institute

By far the strongest component of wake turbulence is the swirling air generated at the tips of the aircrafts wings. Key Takeaways Wingtip vortices, not engine exhaust, create the strongest wake turbulence. Wake turbulence can cause severe roll and structural damage to smaller aircraft. How Are Wingtip Vortices Formed?

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How to Read a Windsock

Pilot Institute

The windsock is normally placed next to a runway or helipad so that you can easily see it when lined up for takeoff or coming in for a landing. It is your responsibility to evaluate wind conditions before selecting a runway for takeoff or landing. Moving erratically : Conditions are gusty or turbulent. Why does this matter?

Knot 98
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Managing the wind

Air Facts

Subjective factors such as terrain, turbulence, and gust direction are as important as the numbers. I did a checkride in 30 knot winds in the flatlands of Kansas, almost straight down the runway. I’ve landed in strong winds enough times that 30 knots can seem routine, as long as it’s reasonably aligned with the runway.

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Mastering Crosswind Landings (A Step-by-Step Guide)

Pilot Institute

When the wind is blowing across the runway instead of along it, things get more challenging. In this article, we’ll cover all you need to know to confidently master crosswind landings. Key Takeaways Manage crosswind landing challenges using the crab and sideslip techniques. A runway excursion can quickly follow.

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Simulated Austria Is Wild, Wonderful

Flying Magazine

The small aileron “tabs” were not doing a great job in crosswind ability. On the downwind to the westerly runway at LOWI, I experienced a lot of up and down drafts, shear, varying winds, and sloppy controls. Landing was wild, leading to the aircraft’s big wings striking the ground at times in the crosswinds approaching 35 knots.

Crosswind 105
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Groundhog Day at Alton Bay

Photographic Logbook

Over the last three years, The Bear has expressed great interest in visiting Alton Bay, the only FAA-authorized ice runway in the continental United States. A very brief 2022 season for the ice runway eliminated opportunities to return that year. I pointed to the ice runway as we cleared terrain hiding it. There it is!"

Runway 89
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White-Knuckle Affair

Plane and Pilot

The little plane leapt into the air almost immediately as the wind seemingly swirled from every direction along the 5,000-foot runway. 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.

Runway 98