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 avoid an unforecasted thunderstorm, demonstrating proactive decision-making.
Despite clear skies, the pilot disregarded a local park ranger's warning about severe turbulence, leading to a dangerous encounter over a ridge.
The incident highlights that severe clear-air turbulence can occur unexpectedly, even without visible cues, emphasizing the need for constant vigilance.
The experience taught the pilot the importance of humility and respecting all warnings, regardless of the source's perceived expertise, for aviation safety.
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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