
Advanced Mountain and Canyon Flying
Why learning to fly in the mountains is important!
Learning to fly in the mountains is crucial for safety due to the unique challenges these environments present. Mountainous terrain can create unpredictable weather patterns, strong winds, and turbulence that require a pilot to be well-prepared and knowledgeable. Mastering mountain flying techniques enhances a pilot's ability to navigate safely, ensuring they can respond appropriately to the dynamic conditions. Ultimately, this training not only boosts a pilot's confidence but also significantly reduces the risk of accidents, making mountain flying a safer experience for everyone involved.
Advanced Mountain and Canyon Flying
Red Cliffs Aviation Syllabus
Ground Instruction:
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​Aircraft Systems, Types, and Designs​
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Aircraft Loading and Performance
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Mountain and Canyon Meteorology
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Flight Planning and Navigation
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​En Route Operations
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Approach and Landing
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Takeoff and Departure
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Risk Management and Human Factors
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Flight Instruction:
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Lesson 1 (1.5 hours)​
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Aircraft Performance Familiarization
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Slow Flight and Stalls at Various Flap and Power Settings​
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Ground Reference and Performance Maneuvers
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Lesson 2 (2 hours)
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Reading Terrain
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Finding Updrafts, Downdrafts, Turbulence
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Basic Canyon Entry (Downhill)
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Crossing Ridges
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Convergence Effects
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Lesson 3 (3 hours)
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Advanced Desert Canyon Flying
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Turning Inside Canyon Systems
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Terrain Composition
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Venturi Effects
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Lesson 4 (2 hours)​
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Practice Approaches in Canyons
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Planning Approach (Standard vs Non-Standard)
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Identifying Touchdown Spot
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Identifying and Executing Go-Around
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Lesson 5 (3.0 hours)
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*Prerequisite - Off-Airport Lab*​
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Landing at Various Back-Country Airports in Southern Utah
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