Had trouble today with windy landing, advice?
I decided to abort a landing (and return home) today at the destination airport because I felt unsafe on the final approach (lots of bouncing around, lots of difficulty maintaining horizontal and angular alignment with the centerline). Winds were 14 gusting 20 knots, but directly down the runway (confirmed visually with windsock). The pattern was full and everyone else landing no problem.
I've landed at this particular destination many, many times with no problems. However, the highest wind I've landed with at that destination previously was 10 gusting 14, and that was a little dicey for me.
My wife passenger (and I) were very disappointed that our favorite airport breakfast was a no-go.
I only fly once or twice a month, and I know that isn't enough. My home airport also generally doesn't get much wind, and it's rarely of the gusting form, so it's tough to go out and practice in it. This summer I plan to get an instructor to knock the rust off, but I was wondering if r/flying has some practical advice/tips on managing turbulent, gusty landings?
Posted Mar 24, 2012, 9:25 PM UTC