Windshear Escape Maneuver

Recognizing Windshear

Windshear is a rapid change in wind speed and/or direction over a short distance, either vertically or horizontally. Typical signs include sudden airspeed fluctuations, unexpected changes in aircraft pitch or descent rate, and visual cues like virga, roll clouds, or erratic wind socks. Microbursts, a severe form of windshear, are often associated with thunderstorms and can produce intense downdrafts and shifting winds near the ground.

Precautions and Avoidance

When windshear is suspected, pilots should consider delaying takeoff or approach, selecting an alternate runway, or diverting if necessary. Increasing approach speed slightly (while accounting for longer landing distance) and avoiding configuration changes near the ground are recommended precautions.

Windshear Escape Maneuver Explained

If windshear is encountered, especially a microburst or strong downdraft, immediate action is required:

• Apply maximum available thrust (even beyond normal engine limits if necessary).
• Pitch the aircraft to the maximum safe angle of attack (stick shaker or pitch limit indication).
• Retract speedbrakes/spoilers immediately.
• Maintain current flap and gear configuration until clear of the shear.
• Monitor flight path and airspeed continuously; only resume normal climb or descent once safely out of the windshear zone.

This procedure, often called the windshear escape or windshear go-around, prioritizes maintaining altitude and energy over standard go-around techniques. Operator-specific details may vary, but the core actions remain the same.