Plane and Pilot
JUNE 23, 2025
While it wasn’t a particularly hot day, Big Bear’s density altitude was reported as 8,200 feet, resulting in a higher true airspeed compared to indicated airspeed. Forecasting models suggest a “hydraulic jump” could produce considerable turbulence. And it’s all so much harder in turbulence. Where is the wind?
Flying Magazine
JUNE 18, 2025
But one characteristic of the classic V-tail that isn’t really a factor in the 36 models is the notorious tendency to Dutch roll in turbulence. That’s because the extra length seems to make for a more comfortable ride. Autopilot yaw dampers aren’t necessary. What is necessary is paying particular attention to the health of an aging autopilot.
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Plane and Pilot
MAY 3, 2025
Nothing happens especially quicklyno hair-trigger responses hereplus they are positively trim stable in pitch, handle turbulence well considering their wing loading, and generally dont ask a lot of a pilot. There were only five stall-related accidents, most on high density altitude takeoffs at or near gross weight.
Air Facts
JULY 9, 2025
Should I treat every VFR hop like I’m departing into low IMC with a 10,000-foot density altitude at max gross weight? I fly cross-country often, and for those trips I plan thoroughly—weather analysis, performance calculations, forecasts for winds, icing, turbulence, the works. Maybe my attitude toward these flights is wrong.
AeroSavvy
AUGUST 20, 2021
I spent a few months researching aircraft performance and high altitude airport flying techniques. Density Altitude Piston engines, wings, and propellers lose efficiency as they climb to less dense air at higher altitudes. Pressure altitudes were converted to density altitude.
Flight Training Central
FEBRUARY 16, 2024
The Sectional view also will give you an indication of the possibility of turbulence, by virtue of your departure path’s proximity to higher terrain and how the wind is blowing across those ridges. At airports without published instrument approach/departure procedures, you will need to ensure that you can climb visually to a safe altitude.
Chess In the Air
JULY 4, 2022
Possible causes include: Rotor turbulence, e.g. on wave days. In still air, the climb rate under full power is likely in the range of 3-5 kts given the high density altitude environment at Rifle. This is another great point. Sudden and very powerful surface winds can have various other causes.
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