Air Facts

JUNE 6, 2025

With its sleek, cantilever wing and raked tail, it seemed like a step up from the more pedestrian Skyhawk. Second, there was a strong south wind blowing straight down the runway—great for slowing the airplane’s groundspeed. A crosswind would have made things far more difficult. Both were small but welcome advantages.

Runway

Air Facts

JULY 15, 2024

It was fun doing over 200 knots groundspeed over Rawlings until I realized a solid wall of thunderstorms had formed between me and home, and there were 35 knot winds below. I could turn tail, but things were not much better back further west. I approach using the wing low method in a crosswind. What to do?

Crosswind

Air

MAY 21, 2025

Drawbacks: In cruise, a headwind reduces your groundspeed , meaning your journey will take longer and consume more fuel. It increases your groundspeed , shortening your flight time and saving fuel. For landing, it increases your groundspeed on approach and extends the landing distance. And it’s unique in Europe!

Crosswind

Pilot Institute

APRIL 5, 2024

In this article, we’ll cover all you need to know to confidently master crosswind landings. Key Takeaways Manage crosswind landing challenges using the crab and sideslip techniques. Plan for crosswind conditions with step-by-step procedures. A headwind lowers groundspeed , making landing easier.

Crosswind

Air Facts

AUGUST 21, 2024

My Sonex cruises about 130 mph at this power setting, but headed southeast into the wind I am losing an easy 15 mph on my groundspeed. As I watch the white dashes flash past beneath the nostrils of the Sonex, the tail comes up. A cruise climb as I make my crosswind turn, then downwind, more radio calls on the way.

Groundspeed