I would add that Sedona is the only place I’ve ever aborted a landing because of my poor pattern—once in a
Dutchess many years ago, and once in my IV-P more recently. In both cases, I was landing into a strong (20kt) headwind and got low during an extended base to final turn. The downdraft a mile off the end of the runway definitely exceeded
the climb capability of the Dutchess on a hot summer afternoon, and may have even beat the IV-P more recently. The solution was to add full power right away and turn away from the runway. This puts you over the valley and gives
immediate relief from the downdraft. A higher, steeper approach, aiming for a thousand feet down the runway, as Jim recommends, made the second approaches a walk in the park…both times.
Just for grins, consider PLANNING for a low approach if it’s your first time to Sedona. You’ll be in the right frame
of mind whether you need to go around or not…
Bob
From: Lancair
Mailing List [mailto:lml@lancaironline.net] On Behalf Of marv@lancair.net
Sent: Tuesday, September 04, 2012 4:52 PM
To: lml@lancaironline.net
Subject: [LML] Re: Sedona Local Pilots Flying wisdom
Posted for Jim Hergert <jimrher@aol.com>:
For some of you who will be flying into Sedona, AZ. later this month I wanted
to share some of the thoughts from us local pilots. I have attached a word doc
with those thoughts. I have also introduced myself in the attachment for those
who don't know me.
Looking forward to seeing you all at KSEZ,
Jim Hergert