Katabatic Wind
Definition
A drainage wind caused by cold dense air flowing downhill under gravity, particularly off ice caps and glaciers. Katabatic winds can produce sudden strong gusts at valley airports.
Why Katabatic Wind Matters for Pilots
Weather concepts like Katabatic Wind appear frequently on both FAA and EASA knowledge exams. More importantly, understanding Katabatic Wind helps pilots make sound go/no-go decisions and avoid hazardous conditions in flight. Weather-related accidents remain a leading cause of general aviation incidents.
Exam Tip
This concept is commonly tested in meteorology-related questions on FAA and EASA exams. Make sure you can explain Katabatic Wind in your own words for the oral exam. Practice applying this concept to real-world scenarios, not just memorizing the definition.
Related Terms
Share this with a fellow pilot
Related Content
Normalcy Bias
Aviation glossary definition and exam tips.
V Speeds
Aviation glossary definition and exam tips.
Coordinated Flight
Aviation glossary definition and exam tips.
ATPL Theory Complete Guide
Master every subject covered in airline pilot exams.
Free Practice Exam
Test your aviation knowledge with real exam questions.
Study Katabatic Wind with Rotate
Unlock All Study Materials — $7.49/mo
1,800+ practice questions covering Katabatic Wind and every exam topic. Flashcards, study guides, and progress tracking. 94% first-attempt pass rate.
Test your knowledge
Think you understand Katabatic Wind? Challenge yourself with practice questions covering meteorology and all other exam subjects.
Try Free Practice QuestionsMore Meteorology Terms
METAR(METAR)
Meteorological Terminal Air Report, a standardized format for reporting current ...
TAF(TAF)
Terminal Aerodrome Forecast, a weather forecast specific to an airport covering ...
SIGMET(SIGMET)
Significant Meteorological Information advisory issued for hazardous weather phe...
AIRMET(AIRMET)
Airmen Meteorological Information advisory for weather hazards significant to li...