Switchology

About 1 hours into the return flight, I noticed I was switching fuel tanks more frequently than normal. The headwind I now had was payback for the tailwind on my arrival flight. From 12,000 feet msl down to 4000, the headwind was here to stay. I spent several minutes deciding if I had enough fuel. After going back and forth, I decided to play it safe and admit I didnt plan appropriately for the headwind. I located my new destination which was just 10 miles ahead. A sigh of relief came over me as I chose the safer option, stopping to refuel.

Editorial Staff

Thursday, March 22, 2018 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

The pilot faced dangerously low fuel due to an unforecasted headwind on the return flight, highlighting the importance of accurate fuel planning and the willingness to quickly implement a "Plan B" by diverting.
During the diversion, a critical procedural error was discovered: the CTAF frequency was dialed in but not made active, preventing communication and pilot-controlled lighting activation.
Despite dangerously low fuel, the pilot maintained composure, systematically re-briefed the approach, identified the mistake, and landed safely, demonstrating the value of staying calm to resolve unforeseen issues.

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It was a great day to fly, with clear skies and a smooth, 45-knot tailwind for my trip to Buffalo. I landed and refueled for my return flight, planning to have an hour’s reserve at my destination.

About 1 hours into the return flight, I noticed I was switching fuel tanks more frequently than normal. The headwind I now had was payback for the tailwind on my arrival flight. From 12,000 feet msl down to 4000, the headwind was here to stay. I spent several minutes deciding if I had enough fuel. After going back and forth, I decided to play it safe and admit I didn’t plan appropriately for the headwind. I located my new destination which was just 10 miles ahead. A sigh of relief came over me as I chose the safer option, stopping to refuel.