CFI Pop Quiz #227 - Hilly

[Chris Burgess]

When flying over hilly terrain, ridges, or mountain ranges, the greatest potential danger from turbulent air currents will usually be encountered on the

A) leeward side when flying with the wind.
B) leeward side when flying into the wind.
c) windward side when flying into the wind.

[Paul_Zurawski]

AIM 7-5-5 (i) refers to mountain waves....going with (B)

[KenSandyEggo]

Polish vote #2 for "B." My ex and myself were returning to San Diego many years ago west-bound and attempting to get over the mountains to the east of San Diego in our Ercoupe. I approached at a 45, as I knew there were some winds, and all of a sudden the VSI was pegged at -2000. I gave her full power and set her on best climb and the needle stayed pegged. I turned out to the right and flew to the first valley that went through a couple miles north at Warner Springs and it was like flying through whipped cream, it was so smooth.

[Chris Burgess]

"B" is the most correct. When flying over hilly terrain, ridges, or mountain ranges, the greatest potential danger from turbulent air currents will usually be encountered on the (B) leeward side when flying into the wind.

Reference AC 00-6A, Chapter 9

Air is usually invisible. You need to form a "mental" picture of what the air is doing around you and around every object you fly close to. Including but not limited to trees, hangars, hot parking lots, plowed fields, hilly terrain and other aircraft (prop wash and wake). Avoid being "caught by surprise".