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Wingtip Vortices and Wake Turbulence

Pilot Institute

Vortex size is also affected by proximity to the ground. If youre flying low enough to be in ground effect, the vortex isnt able to fully develop. This lateral movement takes place at a speed of about two or three knots. As at higher altitudes, the vortex movement near the ground is affected by crosswinds.

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Accident Briefs—July 2025

Plane and Pilot

A witness reported that they saw the airplane lift off from the runway and remain in ground effect until it crossed the departure end of the runway. As it crossed the departure end of the runway, it was in a left bank and then struck a tree, then came down in shallow water off a public beach.

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Quiz: Understanding Aircraft Performance

Flight Training Central

What is ground effect? What is the headwind component for a landing on Runway 18 if the tower reports the wind as 215° at 30 knots? Ground effect is most likely to result in which problem? 187 knots 162 knots 165 knots Correct! It increases engine performance. 1,300-foot increase.

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Air Taxi Prototype Crash at Cotswold Airport

Fear of Landing

On the 9th of August 2023, a VX4 crashed at Cotswold Airport in Gloucestershire during a test flight over the runway. The prototype lifted off, hovered and flew at a speed of 40 knots before landing. Once stable in ground effect, the pilot shut down EPU1 (left-side outboard) to simulate the performance in the case of an engine failure.

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Tow Plane Flies Too Slow – Glider Heavy with Water Ballast

Chess In the Air

However, perhaps the safest response for everyone involved would have been the following: Rather than trying to climb with the tow plane, I should have stayed in ground effect while communicating the request for a greater airspeed. Staying in ground effect protects the glider from a stall because of lower induced drag.

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2025 Richard Collins Writing Prize Runner-Up: Tailstrikes and Tiedowns

Air Facts

The airspeed indicator registered 55 knots, close to the Cessna 172s stall speed. Just before touching down, I checked my airspeed and the pit in my stomach deepened: 85 knots far above the 172s normal landing speed of 65 knots. Time seemed to freeze as I floated in ground effect. I had failed my instructor.

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How to Make a Perfect Soft Field Landing Every Time

Pilot Institute

Unlike paved runways, every soft landing surface is different. Obstructions: Ensure the runway is clear of obstacles, from stones to animals. Ground Inspection The best way to check the field’s condition is by inspecting it in person. You can walk down the length of the runway.