Mountain flying represents a real challenge for most flatland pilots. At the same time the rewards are tremendous, offering very spectacular sceneries and views. It also means that the pilot needs training, develop skills and knowledge to fly safely in such an environment. We provide some basic knowledge on this subject, but this is no substitute for real training in the actual environment.

Make sure that you receive thorough training with a qualified instructor or experienced mountain pilot. Flying in mountain area's leaves little room for error. The effects of density altitude and degraded performance need to be recognized. Get a good demonstration of soft, short field take-off and landings. Practice minimum radius turns, just in case you need one. Our first item will be the effects of density altitude, be prepared for a developing story here.

The Basics

Below we describe some fundamentals for mountain flying (in fact you can use them for any type of flying):

• It is not routine. Expect circumstances to be different from day to day or even from hour to hour. Check the weather beforehand and keep checking enroute. Always have a way out!
• Make sure you are proficient with minimum radius turns, slow flight and soft/short field take-offs and landings. Get an instructor and do them dreaded crosswind landings and take-offs. They are easier than you think.
• Airspeed, power and attitude control are important during mountain flying.
• Air above and runway behind you are off no use to us. Use ALL available runway on take-off.
• Understand the effects of density altitude

Before we dive into details we will first discuss density altitude and its effect on aircraft performance.

Density Altitude

Density Altitude Chart

For most flatland pilots density altitude is an abstract factor. Mountain pilots are more used to the effects of this. Flying in high terrain (altitude) and in high temperatures will increase the density altitude and decrease the performance of the airplane compared to standard atmosphere. These effects can result in an accident during a landing of take-off if not understood properly.

Density altitude is pressure altitude (pressure altitude is indicated altitude against 1013 hPa / 29.92 in HG) corrected for non-standard atmosphere temperature. Density altitude is the altitude the aircraft (and the engine too if no turbo is installed) is performing at. If this altitude is higher than the actual altitude performance is reduced. Think: hot, high and humid. These factors create a higher density altitude and decrease aircraft performance, resulting in:

• Increased distance at take-off and landing
• Reduced climb performance
• Higher true (not indicated) air speeds, and ground speeds during approach and landing

In short: aircraft performance depends on air density, which affects lift (drag) engine power and propeller efficiency. And as density decreases aircraft performance decreases. Important to remember.

Fuel, Food and Survival

Not all mountain airports have an adequate fuel supply, make sure that you have enough onboard to return. Or even places to sleep and food. Be prepared to carry food and lightweight camping gear if an overnight stay is needed. Carry a flashlight (the LED types are good) and even a portable strobe light in your flight bag with fresh batteries. Lightweight warm clothing is also recommended. Visit a outdoor shop and get advise on outdoors activities plus they have really good equipment for a stay under the stars..

Flight training only prepares you for the forced landing, but what next? If you fly regularly over sparse area's then a survival course is a must! It will prepare you physically and changes your mental attitude which greatly enhances your changes for survival. A medical emergency course is also very recommended.

Some more items to think about:

• If down, leave the airplane in case of fire else stay with it for shelter and see if the ELT is transmitting. If you must move, leave directions and intentions.
• Make sure the survival kit (suited for the terrain your flying) is accessible in the cockpit.
• Carry a lightweight tool kit, survival gear, clothing etc. Learn how to use these items, know how to build a fire, shelter and how to obtain fresh water in the wild.
• Make sure the survival kit contains at least: a small book on survival techniques, blanket, knife (leathermans are great tools), whistle, small candles, fish hooks and line, small compass, first aid kit, food and water, shelter and signaling items.

This is only small summary and in no case a replacement for a survival course or training!