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How to Read a Windsock

Pilot Institute

Non-Towered Airports Compared to commercial airports that have tower services, many general aviation airports are uncontrolled. Moving erratically : Conditions are gusty or turbulent. As a private pilot, you may fly to or from airports that do not have advanced weather reporting systems. How else can a windsock help?

Knot 98
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This 1947 Stinson 108-2 Is a Well-Supported Antique ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick

Flying Magazine

The 108 evolved from the prewar Stinson 105 series and grew in popularity as general aviation experienced a boom after World War II. Even though they are antiques, these handsome, substantial airplanes are not as rare as you might think.

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Whitecaps On Their Martinis

AV Web

He was giggling because we hit a bit of turbulence that was harsh enough to make me almost jam a plastic fork in my head as I tried to fly the plane and eat my chicken salad simultaneously. We hit some severe turbulence, and I flew up and smashed my noggin against the engine anti-ice switches on the overhead. Surf’s Up!

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What is a Stall? – When Wings Stop Working

Pilot Institute

If you tilt your hand upward slightly, you can feel an increase in lift but if you tilt it too much, the airflow becomes turbulent, and lift suddenly decreases. When you keep it flat, the air flows smoothly above and below. This tilting motion is similar to how the angle of attack (AOA) works on an aircraft wing.

Lift 98
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AI in Avionics

AV Web

For example, AI can dynamically adjust flight plans to avoid turbulence or adjust fuel consumption, thereby enhancing comfort and operational efficiency. For example, the only thing digital about the first general aviation digital autopilot was a four-bit microprocessor in the control panel. However, those days are long gone.

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Pie in the Sky: In Pursuit of the ‘$300 Pizza’

Flying Magazine

We hit our cruising altitude of 7,500 feet and, as expected in the Rocky Mountain region, ran into a bit of turbulence. We made a smooth entry into the pattern, despite Alex starting to feel a bit queasy—a first for her in general aviation, thanks to the bumpy ride.

Crosswind 122
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What Is a Flat Spin?

Pilot Institute

The initial rotation that initiates a spin may result from other factors, such as incorrect control inputs or turbulence. Notable Accidents Involving Flat Spins Flat spins have been responsible for several notable commercial and general aviation accidents.