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 98

Knot Crosswind Rudder Turbulence 98

Northstar VFR

OCTOBER 20, 2023

Airmet Tango (Turbulence): “T” for turbulence, this Airmet is pretty straightforward. Excessive surface wind of 30 knots or more as well as moderate turbulence in the air will require this Airmet to be issued. In short, anything that affects visibility will issued as an Airmet Sierra. Think sandstorm or dust storms.

Turbulence 52

Turbulence Weather Knot Checkride 52

Air Facts

MAY 5, 2025

After all, I had just aced my checkride. The general prognosis indicated no icing in the clouds, no turbulence and a quartering headwind from the west resulting in a mere five knots of headwind component. Instead of a gentle breeze out of the west, we had over 20 knots of headwind blowing out of the south.

VOR 52

VOR Weather Approach Runway 52

Pilot Institute

MARCH 29, 2024

Additionally, both private and commercial pilot checkrides require the demonstration of slow flight. Higher altitudes are also less prone to turbulence and have fewer birds. The stall warning horn sounds at least 5 knots above the actual stall speed. Turbulent air will require a larger airspeed margin.

Lift 52

Lift Rudder Drag Checkride 52