Mountain Flying Basics - Crosswind TO & Land
Statistically, the largest percentage of GA aircraft accidents are related lack of pilot proficiency in dealing with crosswinds resulting in loss of control during takeoff or landing. As the days get longer and warmer the snow begins to melt. This melting snow causes evaporative cooling that can create strong local winds at many mountain airports. In fact, it's not uncommon for winds aloft to be relatively mild and surrounding airports to be calm while Eagle, Aspen, or Leadville are 20 gusting to over 30. If you haven't practiced your crosswind technique in a while this is a perfect time of year to get with an instructor and sharpen those skills.
