Diversion due to Cross Winds and Wind Shear

Diversion due to Cross Winds and Wind Shear 

A couple of months ago during a lesson, one of my clients wanted her daughter to experience flying in the front seat.  We departed from Palo Alto about 4:15 pm to go fly around the Livermore area.  Winds at PAO were normal, 270@12-15.  Nothing unusual about the flight - it was fairly calm and good visibility.

By the time we returned and were approaching PAO at 5:30 pm, the winds had picked up to 230@15gusting 23. Not only were the winds well beyond demonstrated as per the Pilot's Operating Handbook, they were shifting 90 degrees with an 8 knot gust factor, causing wind shear.  (Wind shear = sudden change in wind direction and velocity).  On final approach my altitude was varying + - 200', and my airspeed by + - 15 knots.  Needless to say the airplane was crabbing rather sideways. 

I did two go-arounds, then I thought, " this really isn't working, maybe San Carlos".  I encountered the same conditions at San Carlos and did two more go-arounds.  By this time my client and daughter were looking a little green and had enough.  So I began asking ATC about all the airports around the Bay Area.  Livermore - same, Hayward - same.  Then the controller suggested San Jose - straight down the runway at 10 knots...found one-woohoo...a wonderful relief and not too far away.  After landing we went into the FBO - Atlantic Aviation and checked the forecast.  Winds were forecasted to stay the same for the next 3 hours.  So we were off to Caltrain and back to Palo Alto.

The GET-THERE-ITIS, and "I have to land this airplane" certainly crossed my mind.  And since I land in strong cross winds every day in the Bay Area - I did think "I can probably do this".  But knowing the consequences of bending an airplane or worst case scenario - injuries to passengers, convinced me to make the safe decision.  I know some of my clients think as a flight instructor, that I can always land the airplane. The weather is sometimes even beyond the "Flight Instructor's" comfort zone, but the safe choice is always available.

If you are uncomfortable with x-winds, I would be happy to work with you. 

Read "Escape! (the go-around)" to review the go-around procedure.

Sue Ballew

http://www.skytrekker.net/