Sunday, January 6, 2019

Windy

First, there is the forecast weather. We check it before even going out to the airport. Two hours before takeoff the winds were forecast to be 31008Kts. Good enough for a pre-solo student to practice landings.

Then there is observed weather. The flags were flapping as I drove in. A cold front had moved through last evening and the winds were the aftereffect of the disturbed air behind that front. The broadcast weather (AWOS) at the airport reported 30010kts as we sat in the airplane listening before our taxi out to RWY 23. The windsock was nearly fully extended as it flapped in the stiffening breeze.

Finally, there is actual weather. That is what really counts, and as we lifted off the runway we knew almost immediately that we had been lied too.  The GPS showed a direct crosswind at 20kts at pattern altitude. Sally nearly stopped as we turned on base leg. The landing was going to be a battle. And a great learning experience.


Two times around was enough experience for one day.

He that fights and runs away, May turn and fight another day; But he that is in battle slain, Will never rise to fight again. ~Tacitus

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