Turbulence

What Pilots Should Do

 

The first rule when encountering turbulence is to reduce airspeed

Some general rules:
  • On final approach increase airspeed, though opposite "the first rule", your approach speed is well below your recommended turbulence speed.

  • When flying over rolling hills and experiencing mechanical turbulence, climb to a higher altitude.

  • Remember hazardous turbulence in unstable air generally does not extend a great distance downwind from the barrier.

  • While experiencing turbulence of any kind: reduce airspeed to airspeed recommended in your POH, keep a steady altitude without over-controlling (ride the waves), and constantly watch your instruments.

 

If Mountain flying:
  • During Pre-flight gather as much information as possible: Cloud reports, Wind direction, Wind speed, and air stability.

  • Remember wind at the mountain top in excess of 25 knots suggests some turbulence. Wind greater than 40 knots means use extreme caution. 

  • When approaching mountains from the leeward side during strong winds, begin your climb well away from the mountains. 

  • Climb to 3000 ft AGL - 5000 ft AGL above mountain tops

  • Approach at a 45° angle

 

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