All posts tagged Aerodynamics

Review of Applied Aerodynamics for Private and Commercial Pilots

By | April 9, 2013 | Advanced Flying, Reviews | No comments
Cover of Applied Aerodynamics for Private and Commercial Pilots

For the past few months, I’ve been reading Steve Pomroy’s Applied Aerodynamics for Private and Commercial Pilots. Written by an aerobatic instructor with a background in engineering, Applied Aerodynamics brings clarity to a fascinating and often misunderstood subject. I think it’s a great read and a great resource for pilots of all levels. Here’s why.

Read more…

The Myth of Maneuvering Speed

By | June 1, 2012 | Advanced Flying, Flight Training | 3 Comments
Maneuvering Speed Myths

Most pilots and flight instructors understand VA as the maximum speed at which the airplane will stall prior to structural damage, and that full deflection of the flight controls at or below this speed poses no risk to the airplane. This is a dangerous assumption and it is simply untrue.

Read more…

A Closer Look at Maneuvering Speed

By | May 28, 2012 | Advanced Flying, Flight Training | 4 Comments
Va, Maneuvering Speed

Last week’s piece on maneuvering speed inspired me to dig a little deeper into the topic of VA. It really is an interesting topic that forces pilots to delve into aerodynamic theory. This week, let’s take a closer look at maneuvering speed.

Read more…

Inertia’s Surprising Effect on Wind Shear

By | May 6, 2011 | Advanced Flying | 1 Comment
Microburst

Suppose you are the captain of a Boeing 747 or Airbus A380. You’ve just received a report of wind shear from the Cessna 152 you’re following on final. Should you expect less, similar, or more wind shear?

Before you answer, be sure to consider inertia.

Read more…

← Older Entries