Pilot Institute

MARCH 28, 2025

Vortex size is also affected by proximity to the ground. If youre flying low enough to be in ground effect, the vortex isnt able to fully develop. This lateral movement takes place at a speed of about two or three knots. As at higher altitudes, the vortex movement near the ground is affected by crosswinds.

Turbulence 97

Turbulence Lift Drag Runway 97

Flight Training Central

SEPTEMBER 9, 2024

What is ground effect? What is the headwind component for a landing on Runway 18 if the tower reports the wind as 215° at 30 knots? Ground effect is most likely to result in which problem? 187 knots 162 knots 165 knots Correct! It increases engine performance. 1,300-foot increase.

Density Altitude 105

Density Altitude Knot Ground Effect True Airspeed 105

Fear of Landing

MAY 3, 2024

On the 9th of August 2023, a VX4 crashed at Cotswold Airport in Gloucestershire during a test flight over the runway. The prototype lifted off, hovered and flew at a speed of 40 knots before landing. Once stable in ground effect, the pilot shut down EPU1 (left-side outboard) to simulate the performance in the case of an engine failure.

Descent 100

Descent Knot Thrust Lift 100

Air Facts

MARCH 26, 2025

The airspeed indicator registered 55 knots, close to the Cessna 172s stall speed. Just before touching down, I checked my airspeed and the pit in my stomach deepened: 85 knots far above the 172s normal landing speed of 65 knots. Time seemed to freeze as I floated in ground effect. I had failed my instructor.

Knot 52

Knot Runway Pilot Tail 52

Chess In the Air

JULY 24, 2022

However, perhaps the safest response for everyone involved would have been the following: Rather than trying to climb with the tow plane, I should have stayed in ground effect while communicating the request for a greater airspeed. Staying in ground effect protects the glider from a stall because of lower induced drag.

Knot 52

Knot Ground Effect Tail Pilot 52

Pilot Institute

MARCH 26, 2024

Unlike paved runways, every soft landing surface is different. Obstructions: Ensure the runway is clear of obstacles, from stones to animals. Ground Inspection The best way to check the field’s condition is by inspecting it in person. You can walk down the length of the runway.

NOTAMs 52

NOTAMs Runway Approach Descent 52

Chess In the Air

JUNE 24, 2022

I was listening intently to the ASOS for wind or gusts, letting it repeat 5 or 6 times with the exact same report: 9 kts straight down the runway; no gusts. That was the runway we would use to land. It’s worth noting that Shmulik had a close call in the past: a jet pulled onto the runway in front of him with no radio call.

Pilot 52

Pilot AGL Wind Shear Runway 52