Fear of Landing

APRIL 19, 2024

The helicopter turned left to return to the airport, travelling at about 85 knots. The indicated airspeed had fallen below 65 knots and was still decreasing. As the airspeed decayed, the right yaw increased. As the airspeed decayed, the right yaw increased. The pilot reported two miles out.

Torque 87

Torque Indicated Airspeed Tail Knot 87

Air Facts

OCTOBER 14, 2024

Wind velocity of greater than 20 knots with higher gusts, especially flowing over rough terrain, can lead to an unwelcome flight. Even stable airmass of constant 20 knot winds as it traverses over uneven terrain will cause eddies or burbles, or “potholes in the sky” that will “involuntarily” move the aircraft in its various axes.

Turbulence 52

Turbulence Knot Wind Shear Lift 52

Air Facts

OCTOBER 7, 2024

It was a beefed up, militarized version of the Beechcraft Bonanza with a narrowed fuselage and conventional tail, seating two pilots in tandem cockpits with controls and indicators configured similarly to tactical aircraft of the period. The Navy’s primary trainer was the T-34B.

Cockpit 98

Cockpit Rudder Tail Indicated Airspeed 98

Chess In the Air

JUNE 24, 2022

This is consistent with Rick’s report, which referenced 9 knots of wind. Pattern Entry and the Challenger Complication The normal landing pattern for Runway 26 at Rifle is north of the airport with right turns to base and final. His ground speed had dropped to 75 kt so he also had less kinetic energy reserve.

Pilot 52

Pilot AGL Wind Shear Runway 52

Air Facts

SEPTEMBER 9, 2024

To get the extra lift required for the turns, I had to dive to get extra airspeed so that the plane could turn at that same AOA. Tedious numerical interpolation is not required when adjusting airspeed for weight, contrary to the claims of some AOA advocates. That produced a strange traffic pattern with roller coasters at the corners.)

General Aviation 98

General Aviation Pilot Approach Airplanes 98