Getting a buzz out of X-winds
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Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: Kent UK
Age: 70
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Getting a buzz out of X-winds
Conscious of needing to perfect crosswind landing technique I went for a re-validation sortie with my old instructor in the Cub, focussing on this. The X-wind component was about 14-15 knots. We briefed on a crabbed approach, converting to into-wind wing down with opposite rudder, once over the fence. I'd never really given this a whole-hearted go before.
Okay, it took me a couple of goes to settle in but I pretty much got it, and now I'm blissfuly reflecting on that wonderful state of equilibrium with one main & tail on the runway, the other still in the air - it's all under control, you're in the middle of the runway and pointing straight down it; the other wheel settles and now you're vigorously stopping the swing this way and that with rapid bootfuls of rudder. Ain't flying fun!
Okay, it took me a couple of goes to settle in but I pretty much got it, and now I'm blissfuly reflecting on that wonderful state of equilibrium with one main & tail on the runway, the other still in the air - it's all under control, you're in the middle of the runway and pointing straight down it; the other wheel settles and now you're vigorously stopping the swing this way and that with rapid bootfuls of rudder. Ain't flying fun!
Join Date: Feb 2009
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There is a video on youtube of a guy doing what you describe in an Auster filmed in the Seventies, his execution is perfect. I've had a few attempts in my Terrier but come a very poor second.
Sounds like you had fun!
Join Date: Sep 2003
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Crosswinds can of course be fun, but the "fun" part is dealing with the challenge successfully *despite* the added difficulty. Not so much fun if you overestimate your abilities and end up with a big repair bill!
Join Date: Oct 2010
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Interesting comparing my technique to the auster pilot's technique. I kick it straight before the flare, this fellow kicked it straight after the flare. Any opinions on which method would be better at getting consistent good crosswind landings?
Join Date: Oct 2010
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I find kicking straight before the flare allows my stable aircraft to be gust affected in flare transition - I prefer to straighten up after the flare when a gnat's knacker off the green stuff and going as slow as possible. My uncle demonstrated this beautifully - he used to fly pioneers in Malaya.
Personal opinion, and each to his/her own.
Personal opinion, and each to his/her own.
Join Date: Oct 2010
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Agreed - passengers tend to develop a greenish hue with the 'unnatural' approach attitude with a slipped approach, however. Following a revistation of my niece's breakfast on my lap I have chosen the dressed crab as the approach of choice!
