Taking to the Big Sky

Jeanne Macpherson

Wednesday, September 16, 2009 at 08:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Regularly practice mountain flying skills each season, including reviewing aircraft performance charts and understanding density altitude effects.
Refine core flight maneuvers such as coordination, slow flight, full stalls, and steep turns, and master short-field and soft-field landing/takeoff techniques for rough backcountry strips.
Perform thorough pre-flights, secure all items against increased vibration, diligently monitor fuel consumption, and keep the aircraft as light as possible.

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I have been flying the backcountry airstrips of Montana and Idaho for 17 years, yet at the beginning of each season I practice my mountain flying skills. I recommend you do the same if you’re planning a visit to mountain country.

Start by reviewing your aircraft performance charts, including the effects of density altitude. Write down the critical airspeeds and know how they vary with changes in altitude and aircraft weight.