During windshear, when should you change the aircraft's configuration (slats/ flaps and gear)?

During windshear, when should you change the aircraft's configuration (slats/ flaps and gear)?

• A. Immediately
• B. After autopilot disengages
• C. Do not change configuration until out of windshear
• D. Change configuration after windshear is cleared

Answer: (D)

During windshear, the air environment is unstable and airspeed can change rapidly. Changing lift devices or gear at that moment can dramatically alter lift and drag, risking a further loss of airspeed or an unintended stall. The safest approach is to maintain the current configuration so you aren’t adding new aerodynamic effects while the flow is gusty. Once you are out of the windshear and the air is more stable, you can adjust the flaps/slats and gear to suit the next phase of flight (climb, approach, or landing) without fighting the unstable conditions. So, you change configuration after windshear is cleared.

During windshear, the air environment is unstable and airspeed can change rapidly. Changing lift devices or gear at that moment can dramatically alter lift and drag, risking a further loss of airspeed or an unintended stall. The safest approach is to maintain the current configuration so you aren’t adding new aerodynamic effects while the flow is gusty. Once you are out of the windshear and the air is more stable, you can adjust the flaps/slats and gear to suit the next phase of flight (climb, approach, or landing) without fighting the unstable conditions. So, you change configuration after windshear is cleared.