7a - Downwind Landing
Required for Solo: 61.87(i)(16)
Required for Private: PTS IV(S)
Lesson Objective
Optimally, gliders will land into the wind. Occasionally, the glider must be landed with a tailwind. This lesson plan covers the issues related to a downwind landing. On downwind approaches, a shallower approach angle should be used, depending on obstacles in the approach path. Use the spoilers/dive brakes and perhaps a forward slip as necessary to achieve the desired glide path.
Regulatory Requirement
- §61.87(i)(16)
- Private Pilot Practical Test Standard IV(S)
Content
- Uses shallower approach path than normal
- Uses spoilers and slips as necessary to attain desired glide path
- Judges angles and descent rates correctly
- Corrects for increased ground speed and loss of control effectiveness at higher ground speeds.
Completion Standards
The student must be able to perform:
- a satisfactory downwind landing.
- maintains positive control of the glider on landing and roll-out.
- judges angles correctly, and uses brakes or slip as appropriate
The student must be able to explain:
- effect of a downwind landing on the glide ratio
- effect of a downwind landing on the loss of controls at higher ground speeds
- hazards of landing in excessive tail winds.
Prerequisite Study
- Glider Flying Handbook (2024), Chapter 7, Page 7-38, "Downwind Landing"
- Glider Flying Handbook (2024), Chapter 8, Page 8-6, "Tow failure above Return to Runway Altitude"