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How to Read a Windsock

Pilot Institute

Have you ever wondered how pilots determine wind direction and speed at a glance? If youre preparing for takeoff, navigating an approach, or landing at an uncontrolled airport, knowing how to read a windsock can give you quick wind information. Regular inspection of windsocks makes sure you receive reliable wind information.

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Flying Through the Center of a Trough Should Have Been Uneventful

Flying Magazine

During these events, it’s quite common for a pilot to walk up and ask me about how I handled my most challenging flight as it relates to weather. I don’t have such a story since I am always diligent about minimizing my exposure to adverse weather when I am the pilot in command (PIC). READ MORE: Go or Stay?

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Turbulence

Air Facts

From light turbulence which causes a minor change in the lateral, longitudinal and vertical axis through moderate turbulence where the aircraft movement is rapid but remains in the control of the pilot and then extreme turbulence where the control of the aircraft is lost. The mechanical force is via the wind velocity and direction.

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Types of Thunderstorms in Aviation: From Simple to Severe

Pilot Institute

Each poses unique challenges for pilots. Thunderstorms create turbulence, wind shear, and icing risks for aircraft. Pilots should use weather forecasts and SIGMETs for safe flight planning. Types of Thunderstorms As a pilot, it’s important to remember that not all thunderstorms are the same.

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Invisible Trap Kills Glider Pilot – How To Avoid Microbursts

Chess In the Air

About 90% of accidents could have been prevented by the pilot. Most can be avoided by diligent pre-flight preparations; by paying attention to what’s happening around us; by staying disciplined and flying within one’s margins; and by avoiding basic piloting mistakes through regular practice.

Pilot 52
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Sweet Dreams

Photographic Logbook

But they have become a grudgingly acknowledged facet of pilot life. It was eerie, but this is why ATC and instrument flight rules exist: to prevent instrument pilots from colliding with obstructions, terrain, and other airplanes. I pulled the power back and set a notch of flaps to establish a 90 knot, 500 foot/minute descent.

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AIRMETs Vs. SIGMETS: What’s the Difference?

Pilot Institute

For pilots and anyone involved in aviation, understanding AIRMETs and SIGMETs is invaluable. SIGMETs alert pilots to more severe weather events like thunderstorms, volcanic ash, or strong turbulence that could pose serious risks to any flight. SIGMETs alert pilots to severe weather, such as thunderstorms. What Is an AIRMET?

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