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. Your wings don’t create as much drag as they would at higher altitudes, which gives you extra lift. Ground effect is a phenomenon that every pilot must master.

Ground Effect 52

Ground Effect Drag Lift Runway 52

Flight Training Central

SEPTEMBER 9, 2024

What is ground effect? What effect does high density altitude have on aircraft performance? Ground effect is most likely to result in which problem? What true airspeed should a pilot expect at 9,000 feet on a standard day with 65 percent maximum continuous power? It reduces climb performance.

Density Altitude 105

Density Altitude Knot Ground Effect True Airspeed 105

Air Facts

SEPTEMBER 9, 2024

The many analyses and videos on these topics have been done in what can best be described as laboratory conditions, carefully selected optimum conditions of pilot, airplane, and environment. Was this a power loss after takeoff, whether or not the pilot chose to fly an impossible turn? Would a visual AOA indicator have helped?

General Aviation 98

General Aviation Pilot Approach Airplanes 98

Chess In the Air

JUNE 24, 2022

About 90% of accidents could have been prevented by the pilot. Most can be avoided by diligent pre-flight preparations; by paying attention to what’s happening around us; by staying disciplined and flying within one’s margins; and by avoiding basic piloting mistakes through regular practice.

Pilot 52

Pilot AGL Wind Shear Runway 52

Plane and Pilot

OCTOBER 3, 2024

When spelled geoduck it represents a grotesque, oversized mollusk, or clam to we pilot simpletons. Much depends on the aircraft’s weight, pilot skill and, surprisingly, “how much abuse you want to experience. Checking the oil is the main attraction to the pilot. The airplane will handle more than you want to.”

Airplanes 79

Airplanes Rudder Knot Aileron 79