Expert: David Bidwell - 4/5/2004

Question
I recently received my private pilot's license while I was stationed in California.  Most of the time the winds were off the ocean and there was not much in the way of strong crosswinds.  I just returned to Indiana and when going on a checkride (Cessna 172) over the weekend I had problems landing in the strong crosswind & gusts.  All was going well leading to landing.  I crabbed coming in on final perfectly but straightening out over just before the theshold things got dicy - two go arounds and third time worked.  What do you suggest?

Answer
Hi Karl,
Straightening out from a crab requies airflow around your rudder for control effectiveness.  I suggest that you practice adding power to gain control authority.  Practice this with an instructor (one with lots of experience)  I am not what kind of wind that you had but crosswinds can be tough if they are moving around and gusting.  Congratulations on making great decisions and going around!  A go-around is never wrong.
Good Luck, and practice, practice, practice!
Dave