Pilot's tip of the week

Crosswind Landing Technique

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Subscriber question:

"What is the best and more importantly, the safest method for crosswind landings - slip, crab or a combo of the two?" - Don J.

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Bob:

Crosswind landing“The best method, in my opinion, is a combination of a crab on short final with a transition to a side slip in the landing flare. The side slip allows the pilot to align the longitudinal axis of the aircraft with the runway centerline, preventing side loading of the landing gear.

Practical test standards for both private and commercial require that the longitudinal axis of the aircraft be aligned with the centerline of the runway – this can only be accomplish using a side slip.

To do good crosswind landings requires practice. Start with gentle crosswinds (approximately 5 knots) until you develop your technique. Also, make a point of practicing crosswinds from both sides. Some pilots become very good handling crosswinds from one side or the other only because their home airport has prevailing winds from one side only. Seek out opportunities to practice crosswinds from both sides.”

(NEW) VFR Mastery scenario #94 “Gulf Coast Gauntlet” is now available. You’ve been dodging showery precipitation all the way home and you’ve got one area to bypass. The catch is the only VFR you can use is the peninsula on the west side of Tampa’s Class B, about 15 miles ahead. You stop and wait, but the only good airport is behind you and still IFR in showers. You circle to consider your options: VFR under the Bravo, VFR with a clearance through the Bravo, land without permission at a private airpark where no one seems to be monitoring the radio, or continue to circle, burning gas and hoping things improve. Watch the Intro video.

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