FAA Commercial Pilot Airplane (CAX)WeatherMedium
A pilot is flying at 8,000 feet MSL and experiences a sudden, uncommanded change in pitch and altitude, indicating encountering a downdraft associated with a thunderstorm. What is the most likely hazardous weather phenomenon encountered?
- AMountain Wave
- BWake Turbulence
- CMicroburst
- DClear Air Turbulence
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Microburst
A microburst is a localized column of sinking air (downdraft) within a thunderstorm and is characterized by a sudden, strong outflow of air at or near the surface. The severe downdrafts can cause uncommanded changes in pitch and altitude, especially when associated with thunderstorms.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Mountain waves are associated with mountainous terrain and strong winds, not directly with thunderstorms.
- B. Wake turbulence is generated by other aircraft, not primarily by thunderstorms.
- D. Clear air turbulence is not typically associated with thunderstorms or severe downdrafts.
Microburst
A microburst is a localized column of sinking air (downdraft) within a thunderstorm, causing a violent outflow of air near the surface, posing an extreme hazard to aircraft.
- Associated with thunderstorms.
- Features severe downdrafts.
- Causes sudden, significant changes in airspeed and altitude.
- Can last from a few seconds to several minutes.
Memory trick: Thunder's fury, a microburst's flight story.