What sequence occurs as you fly through a microburst?

The correct sequence when flying through a microburst typically involves a rapid increase in headwind (HW) and indicated airspeed (IAS) as the aircraft initially encounters the downdraft. This is followed by a decrease in tailwind (TW) as the aircraft begins to transition out of the downdraft, resulting in a significant and potentially dangerous decrease in IAS as it rapidly descends and then encounters the outflow of the microburst.

When entering a microburst, pilots might experience increasing headwinds and IAS because the downward wind from the microburst can accelerate the aircraft towards the ground. After penetrating the strongest downdraft, the aircraft often transitions into an area of diverging winds, leading to a tailwind that can cause confusion as the aircraft suddenly loses lift, resulting in a drop in IAS.

This makes it crucial for pilots to understand the dynamics of a microburst, as the change in wind speeds can be abrupt and create hazardous conditions. By recognizing and anticipating these changes in HW, IAS, and TW, pilots can better prepare themselves for the effects of flying through a microburst.