Air Facts

JULY 15, 2024

Though wind is reported using such simple numbers like 270@15G20, I’ve come to believe that 20 knots here is not always the same as 20 knots there. Subjective factors such as terrain, turbulence, and gust direction are as important as the numbers. Then came the landing in 20 knots in the Hill Country of Texas, west of Austin.

Knot 75

Knot Crosswind Rudder Runway 75

Air Facts

JULY 17, 2024

With groundspeed above 185 kts., How can you land in this turbulence? With a 20+ knot headwind straight down the runway, my touchdown was slow and thankfully smooth. And YES, the flight home was far worse as I was flying low to keep the groundspeed in positive numbers and thinking the truck drivers were going to beat me home.

Groundspeed 81

Groundspeed Turbulence Knot Pilot 81

Air Facts

AUGUST 16, 2024

With a screaming tailwind, I was seeing a groundspeed of 185 kts at 6,500 feet. This had the effect of a rapid reduction of airspeed (to 80 knots) as the autopilot fought to maintain altitude. On the other side of the wave, the airspeed increased to 150 knots. I was airborne in roughly one hour. hours flight time.

Weather 77

Weather Knot Ceiling Turbulence 77

Flying Magazine

APRIL 25, 2024

Along with several other forecasts not shown here, this made me believe that a route around the west side of Washington would provide the least exposure to adverse weather, especially as it relates to convective turbulence. Our groundspeed was a meager 72 knots as we descended on the glideslope. Crisis averted.

Weather 108

Weather Wind Shear Clearance Turbulence 108