1) yes, upwind landing is preferred, but don't crash into the trees trying to come around into the wind.designrs wrote: Hypothetically speaking, general thoughts on off-field landings, not about this specific incident:
1) a tailwind would increase grounds speed and impact forces substantially, if an upwind landing was not possible.
2) a "perfect spot" could still have unseen hazards like hidden holes and other obstructions
3) get that speed off as much as safely possible for the unknown!
Further comments from the more experienced?
2) true, but once committed, you're committed. Small corrections, sure, but don't crash into the trees because you spot a better field on the other side if you don't have the altitude.
3) the slower the better in any collision, but better to land 5 mph above stall speed than to get below stall speed 50 feet above the aforementioned trees.
Re: obstacles on the ground... Look at where you want the plane to go, not what you hope to miss. Like the gap between two trees for you to go, while energy is disapated by the wings hitting them.