Pilot Institute

MAY 4, 2024

In the Cessna 172S Pilot’s Operating Handbook (POH), the landing distance decreases by 10% for every 9 knots of headwind. For the Cessna 172, landing distance increases by 10% for every 2 knots of tailwind. Temperature An increase in temperature will increase the density altitude.

Weight-Shift-Control 52

Weight-Shift-Control Runway Approach Descent 52

Air Facts

MAY 24, 2024

Even though this was late May, it was early enough in the day that the temperatures and density altitude hadn’t climbed to outrageous heights—yet. With a little forward pressure on the yoke, I was able to keep the airplane on the runway to continue picking up airspeed as we arrived at my target of 60 knots for takeoff.

Aileron 72

Aileron Crosswind Knot Runway 72

Chess In the Air

JUNE 24, 2022

This is consistent with Rick’s report, which referenced 9 knots of wind. 65 kts IAS given the high density altitude. Note that a 43 knot gust from a direction of 190 degrees was measured at 17:39, one minute after the accident (provided that the time stamp is accurate).

Pilot 52

Pilot AGL Wind Shear Runway 52

Air Facts

SEPTEMBER 9, 2024

Airspeed variations with weight in light general aviation aircraft are only a handful of knots, so it’s easy to fly the published slow speed when light, the faster speed when heavy, and something in the middle when the aircraft weight is something in the middle. No math required. That variety may require multiple initiatives.

General Aviation 73

General Aviation Pilot Approach Runway 73