If youve ever wanted to see something you wrote appear in an aviation magazine with your name, heres your chance. Each month, this space is devoted to giving readers the opportunity to share with other pilots something theyve learned about flying aircraft. Well always assure anonymity if you want it, but well be happy to put your name on it, also.
The pilot effectively used in-flight weather radar to identify and divert around unexpected thunderstorms, demonstrating its value over general ATC weather reports.
Despite clear skies, a park ranger's specific warning about severe turbulence over a ridge at the destination airport proved accurate, leading to a harrowing but safe landing.
The experience taught the pilot a valuable lesson in humility, emphasizing the importance of respecting local knowledge—even from non-aviation personnel—and being prepared for unexpected conditions.
My wife and I always looked forward to my annual August convention on Mackinac Island (KMCD), Mich. Several years ago, we departed IFR from our home base (KPTK) with no adverse weather forecasted. However, just south of Pelston, reds, yellows and greens popped up on my in-flight weather radar, extending up past Mackinac Island.
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