What flap setting is recommended for landing in windshear conditions?

Setting flaps to 10 degrees when landing in windshear conditions is a recommended practice as it strikes a balance between maintaining aircraft control and optimizing performance in potentially hazardous situations. When flying through windshear, which is characterized by sudden changes in wind speed and direction, the aircraft may experience alterations in lift and drag. A reduced flap setting, such as 10 degrees, helps to maintain better control, thus providing pilots with a more responsive handling of the aircraft during descent and landing.

Using flaps in a limited configuration can aid in maintaining a cleaner aerodynamic profile while still offering some lift enhancement. This option allows pilots to respond to unexpected changes in airspeed or attitude that can accompany windshear. Particularly when stopping distance is not critical, opting for a moderate flap setting can help in preventing excessive drag and maintain a more stable flight.

While full flaps can improve lift and control, they may also introduce additional drag, making the aircraft more susceptible to the effects of windshear. Conversely, not using flaps in windshear conditions may significantly limit lift performance and control authority, which can be risky during landing. Hence, the choice of 10-degree flaps provides a practical means for enhancing safety during such landings.