## Introduction 

## Safety Window 

Mountain flying opens up new opportunities for the general aviation pilot for unique and interesting destinations, plus a view of spec› tacular scenery. However, mountain flying, even more so than flight in the flatlands, is very unforgiving of poor training and planning. There is a narrow window of safety that an untrained pilot can easily stray out of without the experience and knowledge gained from a recognized training program and a mountain checkout by a qualified moun› tain flight instruclm: This publication is not intended to be a com› plete mountain flying training course. Instead, it can be used as an overview before you take recognized training or a review after› ward. Recognized training for this type of flying is a must and you are encouraged to attend a recognized mountai.n flying course that includes adequate mountain ground and flight training. 

## What is Mountain Flying? 

Rather than offer a definition of "mountain" flying, it should be pointed out that many of the subjects discussed in this publication can be found in nonmountainous areas or at low altitudes. For example, density altitudes over 8.500 feet can be found regularly on the eastern plains of Colorado in the summer. Also, dangerous mechanical turbulence and even mountain wave can be found in areas that aren’t usually considered mountainous. Of course, places like the Rocky Mountains are-wllere all oflhese concepts can be experienced first hand and you should have mastered them before you attempt a flight through these areas. 

## Pilot Requirements 

Because of the more demanding nature of mountain flying, you should carefully consider your experience and background before beginning a flight into mountainous terrain. First, it is essential that you consider attending a recognized mountain flying course to give you the knowledge and skills you will need to be safe. There are numerous recognized courses taught, usually in the summer months. and you can contact an FAA Flight Standards District Office in mountainous areas for references. 

Second, itis usually a good idea to wait until you have at least ISO hours of pilot in command time logged before taking mountain training. Pilots with this amount of time have usually had time to 

