I like this approach. We did exactly this yesterday in the Archer, and managed to navigate around thunderstorm cells over Lake Erie easily. Flight was KIPT to KGRR and back. The return flight we were at 11,500, VFR the whole way. ATC was great at working with us both ways to give us updates on where the cells were (to the best of their abilities), which helped us to plan some. Most of what we did was look out the window, though.
To see our diversions, check flightaware.com for 3562G. The return flight (KGRR -> KIPT) we effectively did direct with minor diversions, heading down towards Cleveland around Detroit, and then while over Lake Erie going more direct. At 11,500 we were just above the easy stuff, and had great views of the bad stuff. Wonderful pictures. The flight out we had to go pretty far north to get around, but we planned that from the beginning when we took off from KERI (our fuel stop).
Not a flight in a Lancair, but a safe flight through some conditions that were rough enough that the commercial jets were diverting around. I'd think it to be good advice for anyone regardless of airplane. Thanks for sharing, Charlie.
-Ted
On 7/12/08, Charlie Kohler <charliekohler@yahoo.com> wrote:
Hi Colyn,
IMHO the safest approach to summertime towering cumulus is to stay VMC. On top- is best if the air is not electrically charged -- if not able-- go down to 3000 feet-- below the bases (VMC) (check terrain clearance)-- and always be vigilant for lightning and hail on the downwind side--
yes--stay out of the green (if only to protect your paint).
And in regards to diversions-- go early when the heading corrections are 10 to 20°. Not when you're in a box canyon and you need a 90° to a 180° course change. You'll notice that large holes and openings from 100 miles out will close up by the time you get there. And it would've been better to take that 20° heading cut to go around the up wind side before you got there. Saves time too.
And Thanks--
Charlie K.
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