Pilot Institute

JUNE 9, 2025

Holding patterns are a great way to keep your position and ensure clearance from terrain and other aircraft. Hold Altitude Holding procedures, flown correctly, will always allow for sufficient terrain clearance. Too little groundspeed, and you may turn too soon, making a mess of the hold. How Do You Do a Holding Pattern?

Airplanes 52

Airplanes Crosswind Approach Knot 52

Air Facts

DECEMBER 30, 2024

I encountered unexpected headwinds to start, slowing my groundspeed down to 75 knots at times. Additionally, the needle on my altimeter at one point was swinging through 500 increments! Day 3 The next day of my journey would clear me out of the mountains with my first landing in Moriarty, New Mexico (KOEO).

Weather 98

Weather Approach VFR On Top Knot 98

Air Facts

AUGUST 5, 2024

” Not only that, you just never know what kind of surprise ATC will spring on you when you’re picking up your IFR Clearance, so preparation is everything! Assuming the mighty Warrior can produce a groundspeed of 90 knots, you take that number, divide it by 60, and you’ll end up with 1.5. feet per minute). Multiply 1.5

Density Altitude 98

Density Altitude Ceiling Runway Weather 98

Air Facts

APRIL 29, 2024

At the current groundspeed, I believed it shouldn’t be of much concern unless the cell began producing lightning. I queried ATC about when to expect the approach clearance and was informed that the Saratoga had appeared to land but the pilot hadn’t contacted ATC to close his IFR flight plan. The IAF was looming closer.

Descent 98

Descent Approach Weather AGL 98