Lesson 7a - Downwind Landing

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 (2013), Chapter 7, Page 7-27 "Downwind Landing"
• Glider Flying Handbook (2013), Chapter 8, Page 8-12 "Tow failure above return to Runway Altitude"