Pilot Institute

JUNE 4, 2025

The Weather Vane It mostly comes from the vertical stabilizer (fin) and the sides of the fuselage behind the center of gravity. To help you understand this, imagine a weather vane with the CG as the pivot. High aspect ratio wings reduce drag and improve performance during climb or slow flight. Why does this matter?

Tail 52

Tail Airplanes Weight-Shift-Control Drag 52

Pilot Institute

NOVEMBER 1, 2024

And ice doesn’t just make things slippery, it messes with the airflow over the wings, cuts down on lift, and ramps up drag. This leads to a serious loss of lift and an increase in drag. This roughness adds to friction drag, which can reduce lift and increase drag by as much as 50% on a wing’s leading edge and upper surface.

Pitot Tube 52

Pitot Tube Drag Lift Airfoil 52

Pilot Institute

MARCH 26, 2024

This tendency is due to their high center of gravity and heavy engine over the nose wheel. However, the increased drag might make it impossible to take off again. If you’re at a field with no weather reporting, gauge the wind speed and direction using the windsock. In extreme cases, a nose-over can occur.

NOTAMs 52

NOTAMs Runway Approach Descent 52

Pilot Institute

JANUARY 7, 2025

It helps you evaluate the weather, terrain, and airspace ahead. When it comes to the environment, such as bad weather or tough terrain, you can adjust your route, delay your trip, or cancel altogether. Factors like weight and balance, fuel levels, and even weather all play a role in performance.

Weather 52

Weather NOTAMs Pilot Center of Gravity 52

Pilot Institute

APRIL 5, 2024

But don’t hang up your headset just because the weather isn’t perfect. Use weather forecast charts, METARs, and Terminal Area Forecasts (TAFs). Have the winds changed since your departure weather briefing? A sideslip approach creates excess drag and requires more control inputs.

Crosswind 52

Crosswind Longitudinal Axis Aileron Rudder 52