Mountain flying
Mountain flying adds risk. Plan around hazards before departure.
Pre-flight planning factors (TC AIM AIR 2.13). Terrain changes aircraft performance:
| Factor | Detail |
|---|---|
| Elevation | Departure and destination airports |
| Temperature and pressure | Both drive performance |
| Turbulence and wind effect | Expect mountain wave, strong local winds |
| Safe takeoff procedures | Clear obstacles and intervening high ground, not just the runway |
Risk-management advice (ASL 3/2025 column):
- Night single-engine VFR in mountains is a bad idea. Be tied down before dark.
- Westbound legs: sun glare plus growing darkness can hide obstacles before official night.
- Stay within gliding distance of major roadways: road (or trees beside it) gives a landing spot and nearby help if engine quits.
Trap: "not yet dark" is not "visibility fine": glare alone can hide obstacles before official night.
References
- TC AIM AIR 2.13
- ASL 3/2025, Risk Management in Mountain Flying