Pilot's tip of the week

Using Flaps On Crosswind Landings

Featuring

Subscriber question:

 "I fly a C172. I was taught to use the first notch of flaps abeam the approach end of the runway on downwind, add the second notch on base, and add the third notch after turning final. In gusty/x-wind conditions, I feel more comfortable not using the final (third) notch. What are the pros and cons of this vari

Wally:

“Flaps are simply a tool to be used by the Pilot in Command. So don’t be reluctant to adjust your use to fit the situation. If you find it more comfortable to land with less flaps in a gusty crosswind condition, you should do that unless there is a POH prohibition against it.

crosswind landingsIn gusty crosswind conditions, many pilots feel a higher approach speed with a lower flap setting gives them more control of the aircraft during the flare and that is correct, however, you still need to transition from flying speed to touchdown speed and that will take longer with less flaps. I have seen pilots approach with way too much speed and too little flaps on a windy day and watched them float and balloon all the way on down the runway, fighting the aircraft all the way. Also, landing with less than full flaps will cause you to use more runway which may or may not be a problem depending upon the airport.

For what it’s worth, most airline and corporate aircraft always land with full flaps but they may add a speed increment for strong winds and gusts. The advantage here is that the flare is the same each time and the landing distance is predictable.

Follow the guidance in your POH, get the approach stabilized early and don’t add unnecessary speed.”

(NEW) IFR Mastery scenario #171 “Unknown Icing in Minnesota” is now available. Winter IFR presents unique hazards with little margin for error. How much confirmation of benign conditions is enough for a well-equipped, high-performance single that’s not certified for flight into known icing? And is icing the most important risk factor to consider on this cold-weather flight? Watch the Intro video.

Get the Pilot’s Tip of the Week

Sign up here to receive tips like this every week along with videos, quizzes and more.

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.