is blowing toward. Turbulence due to the rough terrain may make the flight uncomfortable, but may also require that you fly at maneuvering speed. Remember that maneuvering speed decreases as the airplane’s weight decreases. You shcmld know what your maneuvering speed is for the weight at which you are flying and be able to go to it quickly if you encounter rough air. • 

Pilotage and dead reckoning will be your primary type of naviga› tion. VORs are usable in limited areas, but suffer from limited range and other problems. LORAN and GPS systems work quite well. however, and can be used effectively to maintain your posi› tional awareness. 

## Descent 

When you first arrive over a mountain airport, take a good look around before you descend to it and plan your departure track. Look for escape routes and emergency landing sites in the event of an engine failure right after takeoff. Also, study the terrain you will have to climb over as you depart. 

Plan your approach path as you start your descent. Some moun› tain airports are confined in valleys that make a normal approach difficult. Study your options before committing to a lower altitude. 

## Approach and Landing 

Approach and landing should be normal at most mountain air› ports. Plan to fly a stabilized approach to the desired touchdown spot. Since mountain winds are sometimes tricky, be aware of windshear and go around if necessary. 

## Emergency Procedures 

Even the best prepared pilots may someday find themselves caught in an emergency situation that will require quick thinking and excellent skill to save themselves and their passengers. Even though these situations cannot be totally prepared for, there are some things you can do to increase your chances of handling the problem in the best way possible. 

## Survival Equipment 

There are volumes written on what type of equipment to carry for survival in the event of a forced landing and you should take the time to use these sources to put together a good survival ldt before launching into the mountains. At a minimum, however, you 

